Toward Adjusting a Conceptual Model for Adaptive Reuse Practice in the Context of Sustainability: A Case Study of Historical Military Buildings in the North of Iraq

Zhiry Hawez Baiz () and Cemil Atakara
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Zhiry Hawez Baiz: Faculty of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture, Cyprus International University, Haspolat-Lefkoşa, Nicosia 99258, Cyprus
Cemil Atakara: Faculty of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture, Cyprus International University, Haspolat-Lefkoşa, Nicosia 99258, Cyprus

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-21

Abstract: This study aims to design a practical model for better understanding and practicing adaptive reuse of historic military buildings in the north of Iraq while also highlighting its integration into sustainability. Although adaptive reuse is becoming increasingly common, limited studies have shown the impact of building typology on reuse practices and how it contributes to sustainability. Each building typology has some characteristics and values that may influence the practice of reusing them. Qualitative methodology using both the literature review and field studies was utilized to achieve this study’s goals. The literature review was applied to illustrate the main components of the research and conduct the conceptual framework. The literature reviews, supported by researcher investigations and historical reviews, helped the researchers to demonstrate the procedure that was followed to reuse these buildings. Finally, field studies, incorporating questionnaires and researchers’ observations, were conducted to evaluate the reused military buildings in the region. Based on the findings, the model was designed. The results emphasize key considerations for this building typology, focusing on environmental connections, embedded information, architectural integrity, monumental status, and intrinsic values. Further, it underscores the positive interaction of the model with environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability concepts.

Keywords: building conservation; adaptive reuse practice; historical military building; building value; community engagement; heritage management; sustainable practice; north of Iraq (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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