The most environmentally efficient and sustainable building is the one already built.

Experts predict that 90% of real-estate development in the next decade will focus on renovating and reusing existing structures. It’s easy to see why: Adaptive-reuse projects are generally faster, more cost-effective, and more sustainable to construct than new buildings.

The new MEES regulations and long sought focus on safety have led to a reappraisal of all building assets, but too often this 'redevelopment charter' has led to the wholesale demolition of vernacular buildings that provide valuable character and identity to communities. In their place often inappropriate, multi-story developments are constructed which, even if built using sustainable materials, are almost always single use - offices that can only ever be offices, small apartments unsuitable for growing families and a nod to to communal space and placemaking with some retail and a slither of green.

This needn't be the normal response. "Adaptive reuse is the repurposing of buildings that have outlived their original purpose. Its main goals include preserving architectural and cultural heritage, transforming urban blight, and igniting social change. Yet these approaches share a goal of extending the useful life of buildings as societal and technological needs evolve". (ref: Sarah Jones, Redshift)

Our Sustainable Approach

ReThinkingBuilding is a leader in driving sustainable development and adaptive reuse within the real estate industry. Our mission is to empower site, estate, building owners and developers by equipping them with comprehensive information and an array of options for sustainable development and building reuse.

We offer a consummate concept to completion service, meticulously provided through our network of professional Partners. These Partners are carefully selected to cater to the unique needs of each stakeholder, offering an extensive range of services including usage auditing, planning, architectural and interior design, funding, and construction.

By aligning yourself with ReThinkingBuilding, you open the doors to a wide range of opportunities. Whether you are an individual or a company, our community welcomes like-minded and qualified individuals. As a member, you gain exclusive access to introductions and relationships with professionals from diverse disciplines. Members are also listed on our Like Minds directory and featured in our Ezines.

Our reputable Professional Partners also have the chance of hosting our prestigious knowledge sharing events, gain bespoke introductions, and actively participating in service panels that provide advice and services to stakeholders. They enjoy premium Like Minds listing and headline input into our Ezines. We organise regular Professional Board meetings when industry experts are invited to share their insights and expertise.

 At ReThinkingBuilding, our objective is to expedite our members' goals while fostering mutual understanding across the industry. We curate a series of bespoke, high-calibre events in various locations, ensuring that our members gain valuable insights and contacts in an enjoyable environment. Through strategic introductions, our members get the opportunity to capitalise on exciting new business prospects and cultivate enduring relationships within our supportive and inspiring community.

 We extend our invitation to individuals and companies who possess not only a wealth of specialist knowledge and experience but also a deep commitment to the sustainable evolution of the property industry and the urgent need for innovation. ReThinkingBuilding is more than just an organisation; it is a vibrant community that embraces diversity, fosters inspiration, and champions inclusivity at every level.

 Join us today and become an integral part of this transformative movement HERE

Examples of completed adaptive reuse projects

There are increasing numbers of examples of outstanding and imaginative projects throughout the UK. Developers and design teams are now aware not only of the the sustainability and carbon saving benefits, but also of the added value they often bring to a development by way of media awareness and increased footfall and rental levels.

Our Services

Asset Appraisal

Property asset appraisal is crucial when considering adaptive reuse. We will assess the potential value and feasibility of transforming an existing building.

This will include market and/or your own need analysis, cost/benefit analysis and environmental and structural issues.

Option Analysis

Once completed we present and discuss the options for the property or site taking into account the impact on the surrounding community and overall sense of place.

On commercial projects we include comparable sales evaluation, income approach and GDV.

Project Delivery

Our resource of professional partners are qualified and experienced in all aspects of the project delivery process and can be employed to carry out any or all aspects of planning, design and construction management,

We have access to development funding that can be brought into play in order to facilitate the project.

Knowledge Share

ReThinkingBuilding is committed to promoting the concept of adaptive reuse and sustainable, community led development. Our professional partners and other experts in the field will regularly host a variety of events designed to create new working partnerships of like-minded companies and practices.

CPD: We have a range of presentations on all aspects of sustainbale regeneration and adaptive reuse. These are available as CPD’s that will be accompanied by a certificate detailing the content and context.

Our professional partners

ReThinkingBuilding engages with a selected range of professional partners who contribute to the appraisal, options and project delivery process. They are all fully qualified and experienced and may be employed together or individually as appropriate and augmented by other specialists drawn from both our own and/or clients approved providers.

Development Design Consultant

Design & Build Main Contractor

Environmental & Building Services

Surveying & Valuation

Project Multi-Services

Corporate Finance

Contaminated Land and Environmental Services