Reactivation of a Post-Industrial Town through Adaptive Reuse

Abstract

The thesis looks at a site in a small, post-industrial town in Fangzi, Weifang, Shandong, China, growing between the two World Wars, and is now facing a decrease in population. Along with the government movement and the closure of a colliery which is one of the main economies supported in the town, the old town district is trying to find a new way to develop. Some attempts have already started. The site is on the edge between the old district and the “new” developed area. The old district, which had several essential facility buildings were built by the German and the Japanese in the early twentieth century. Moreover, the new district is facing the construction booming the same as other cities in China. In order to populate the neighborhood, this thesis proposes redevelopment near the old industrial site, to create a public realm for people. The proposal is to find a balanced design between the modern needs and existing vernacular buildings, through historic conservation. The chosen site has an existing abandoned hospital on it, and it is on the edge of the old vernacular district. The project is a community center with a library, exercise center, and other gathering space for people to use.