SHIFT: The Future of Adaptive Architecture

Casa da Arquitectura—Portuguese Centre for Architecture is celebrating its seventh anniversary this November. As part of the programme of the celebrations, Casa da Arquitectura organizes, with the support of the Portuguese Ministry of the Environment and Energy, the second edition of SHIFT—International Seminar on Architecture and Sustainability, dedicated to “The Future of Adaptive Architecture”.  

Park Associati, the curator of this edition, has brought together a group of experts from different fields—professional practice, industry and academia—to give life to a constructive discussion on the topic, one of the most heartfelt by Park Plus, the in-house research and innovation department that supports the firm´s workflow to improve its strategic thinking.  

Through speeches and panel discussions, different areas and narratives will be addressed, geared towards embracing change and promoting innovation. Park Associati has decided to explore the topic through three thematic approaches: Urban Metabolism, Material Intelligence and Architectural Activism.  

Here is a thought-provoking summary of the topics covered.  

Urban Metabolism sees cities as a “living” system in which resources flow in cycles like those that characterize biological organisms. This perspective encourages us to consider buildings as integral parts of a dynamic ecosystem in which materials and energy continuously circulate and regenerate, minimizing waste and maximizing resources. By rethinking the life cycle of buildings and materials, we can design adaptable and resilient urban spaces. This involves not only reusing already built structures, but also designing new elements that can be easily disassembled and reused in the future.  

Material Intelligence involves a deep understanding and strategic use of materials throughout their life cycle. It prioritizes the selection of materials that are sustainable, durable and adaptable to various uses over time. In the context of Adaptive Reuse, Material Intelligence means carefully evaluating the materials already in a structure to determine their reuse or improvement to meet new performance standards. This involves the use of advanced materials science and engineering techniques to improve the properties of existing materials, making them suitable for contemporary uses, without the need for complete replacement.

Architectural Activism uses design and construction practices to address social, economic and environmental challenges. It aims to create inclusive, equitable and resilient communities through conscious and responsible architecture. In the context of Adaptive Reuse, Architectural Activism means rethinking spaces to better serve the communities they serve. It emphasizes participatory design processes, where community members are actively involved in the planning and development of projects. By integrating the principles of Architectural Activism, Adaptive Reuse projects can address broader social issues such as housing affordability, social inclusion and environmental justice. These projects often prioritize accessibility, sustainability and cultural relevance, creating spaces that are not only functional but also socially transformative.  

The seminar will take place in Matosinhos, Porto, on the upcoming of November 22 and 23.  

Speakers  
Urban Metabolism: Frederic Chartier/ChartierDalix (France), Gustav Düsing (Germany), MASSLAB (Portugal), Laura Wagner/3XN (Denmark). Moderator: Park Associati. 

Material Intelligence  
Francisco Adão da Fonseca/Oficina PEDRÊZ (Portugal), Francesco Palù/6:AM Glass (Italy), Samuel Kalika/Critical Concrete (Portugal), José Rui Pinto/KREAR (Portugal). Moderator: Park Associati.

Architectural Activism  
Mireia Luzárraga/TAKK (Spain), Associates Architecture (Italy), Rúben Teodoro/Warehouse Collective (Portugal), Ana Jara/ Arteria Architects, Portugal. Moderator: Park Associati.

Workshop: Traces
The workshop on November 23 is entitled Traces and offers a unique opportunity to explore sustainable building practices, hone design skills and contribute to a differentiated architectural intervention.
 
With Park Associati. Supported by KREAR & SECIL.

Park Associati short profile 
Park Associati is an interdisciplinary collective of architects, designers, researchers and innovators, united by the desire to shape the future of the built environment. Founded in Milan in 2000 by Filippo Pagliani and Michele Rossi, the studio operates across architectural, urban, landscape, interior, and product design, championing an interdisciplinary approach.  

Every project developed by Park Associati inhabits its own specific context, from the Regione Lombardia skyscraper to the headquarters of Luxottica and Salewa, from residential and retail spaces to the revitalization of modernist buildings or entire neighborhoods. Park Associati immerses itself in the deep richness of each design opportunity, to uncover its inherent identity and deliver a transformative vision. One that’s new, unique and coherent in all its elements.  

Operating at the intersection between tradition and innovation, the studio excels at reinterpreting and regenerating cities to become new models of liveability and sustainability, using adaptive reuse as a core strategy.  

The collective looks far ahead, anticipating the full impact of its architecture. By doing so, Park Associati gives form to a multitude of experiences, research and perspectives, striving to enrich lives and foster a new bond between people, places and planet.