TRANSFORMATION OF SPACES IN ABANDONED BUILDINGS FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT, COLLABORATIO AND GROWTH: A CASE OF THE HOUSE OF COHEN ON INDEPENDENCE AVENUE, WINDHOEK

Abstract

increasing abandonment, necessitating innovative solutions to revitalise the area. This thesis investigates the adaptive reuse of the Cohen Building, aiming to develop design strategies that respond to its current socio-economic and spatial characteristics while preserving its historical and architectural significance and aligning with contemporary urban development trends. The primary objective is to transform the Cohen Building into a dynamic digital creators’ hub aimed at empowering the business surrounding Industry 4.0 and revitalising the CBD. The literature review forms the foundation of this study, encompassing various aspects of architectural theory and practice. Parent's (2020) exploration of typology as dynamism provides insights into the psychological and spatial dynamics essential for adaptive reuse. Adam Hardy's (2007) work on the expression of movement in architecture informs the integration of kinetic elements into static structures. Megahed’s (2015) research on kinetic architecture offers strategies for creating adaptable and responsive spaces. Additionally, the human movement and interaction strategies discussed by Vroman and Lagrange (2016) underscore the importance of designing spaces catered for people, that facilitate engagement and activity. Case studies such as the adaptive reuse of the Malha warehouse in Brazil and the transformation of the FNCC building in Namibia investigate the adaptation of heritage buildings in global south climates such as Namibia and Brazil, which provide practical examples of successful adaptive reuse projects. An investigation of a case study in Norway presents the applications of kinetic elements rounding up the case studies and emphasising the need for flexible design approaches that respect historical integrity while meeting contemporary needs. Design cues from the literature highlight the importance of integrating static served spaces and dynamic servant spaces, as conceptualised by Louis Kahn (1974). The static pods will house primary activities, ensuring stability and continuity, while dynamic servant spaces will support these activities through adaptable and movable elements inspired by kinetic architectural principles (Megahed, 2015). Figure 2 shows an amalgamation of these abstracted ideas within a collage, suggestive of the goal of this thesis, combining kinetic elements and reused adapted elements. The collage depicts the project touchstone centrally, which anchors the concept in dynamic, interlinked spaces. The research methodology includes observational studies, sketching, mapping, and model building to develop and refine design strategies through continuous iteration. Observations will capture the current socio-economic and spatial dynamics surrounding the Cohen Building while sketching and mapping will help visualise potential design interventions. Model building will facilitate the exploration of three-dimensional design solutions, allowing for iterative testing and refinement. In conclusion, this thesis aims to provide a comprehensive strategy for the adaptive reuse of the Cohen Building, transforming it into a vibrant digital creators’ hub aimed at empowering the business surrounding Industry 4.0 and catalysing the revitalisation of the CBD. By integrating historical preservation with contemporary design principles and addressing current socio-economic needs, the Cohen Building will serve as a dynamic focal point for community engagement and urban development.