Implementation Challenges to the Adaptive Reuse of a Heritage Building in Tirana, Albania

Abstract

The present paper focuses on the adaptive reuse of Selim Pashe Toptani Sarajev, a monumental building related to the creation history, ownership and administration of Tirana. The adaptive reuse of the buildings contributes to the sustainability of the urban generation, as it extends the life cycle of the buildings, avoids demolition waste, encourages energy efficient solutions and provides significant social and economic benefits to the society. Firstly, the study begins with an in-depth literature review of the factors that contribute to the goal of sustainable development in the conservation of built heritage. More importantly, this paper examines the challenges in incorporating a sustainability framework into adaptive reuse of the building. The authors stress that the framework for achieving sustainable, low carbon adaptive reuse should be viewed more holistically, integrating social, economic, environmental, urban and political policies.