Subject of the Program

The program's objective is to organize structured theoretical and practical research in the following fields:

a) the adaptive reuse of existing structures, complexes, and areas,
b) the constructional, structural, and energy upgrade of such structures, and
c) the use of digital technologies across the spectrum of adaptive reuse.

The utilization and reuse of past architectural works date back centuries, playing a crucial role in preserving significant monuments of global heritage while conveying information about the technical culture of their era. The reuse and revitalization of historic and non-historic constructions are widely regarded globally as the most environmentally sustainable method for balanced urban development. Demolition and exploitation without any other level of evaluation have been abandoned and are internationally considered unacceptable solutions.

Key reasons for the decline, degradation, and abandonment of individual buildings or residential complexes, administrative centers, industrial areas, military camps, port facilities, railway stations, marketplaces, etc., include globalization, subsequent economic changes, land use alterations, shifts in commercial interest to other regions, the aging of building stock, and more.

The practice of repurposing existing buildings, areas, etc., with new uses has been widely implemented in European cities for decades. In Greece, interest in functional restorations and reuses began 20 years ago but was reignited over the last decade, especially concerning building shells during the financial crisis. Many buildings in the urban core fell into complete disuse and abandonment due to minimal or no demand for their intended use during this period.

Residential buildings, administrative offices, stores, department stores, old hotels, former healthcare facilities, warehouses, and many others remain abandoned for extended periods, creating significant urban voids and dark spots that disrupt urban functionality. Initial hesitation and questions about their potential reuse have been replaced by renewed interest in their integration with new uses. Under what terms will this transformation occur? Are there rules, conditions, legislation, and methodologies for addressing such an issue?

A key point of concern is the initial decision to introduce new uses and how compatible these are with the architectural, structural, and constructional characteristics of the existing building. Another critical issue is the degree of intervention required, which must result from thoroughly documented decisions and the collaboration of an interdisciplinary team to provide scientifically, technically, entrepreneurially, and economically sound solutions.

Purpose of the Program

The purpose of the Postgraduate Program is the comprehensive interdisciplinary management of issues related to adaptive reuse, building and energy upgrades, and the application of digital technologies, offering a specific educational, research, and methodological approach.
This is an extremely relevant and modern field of study that constitutes a research, design, construction, and professional challenge.

Researchers are tasked with designing new uses and spaces within old structures to meet contemporary standards of hygiene, safety, and living conditions.
This process involves identifying historical data, as well as understanding the structure and values associated with these buildings.

All this takes place within a framework of utilizing digital technologies, promoting circular economy principles, sustainable development, and energy conservation, with the ultimate goal of aligning with the European directive that mandates zero-energy buildings after 2020.