In our previous blog, we introduced the housing crisis, explaining how it has reached a critical point and why we all have a responsibility to act. At LPS Architecture & Management Inc., we primarily focus on the revitalization of existing real estate as a solution to this multidimensional problem.

Not only are we adept at working on the most recurring problems with older structures and constructions that pose significant challenges from a regulatory and normative standpoint, but we also believe that revitalizing existing buildings is a valid solution that offers several advantages.

For a long time, environmental efforts have revolved around the eco-responsible strategy of the 4 Rs:, Reduce overall consumption and adopt more responsible lifestyles, Reuse objects or repair them to extend their lifespan, Recycle materials once objects have reached the end of their useful life and Recover by converting waste into resources. Although this 4 R strategy is mainly applied to the consumption of goods, the construction industry, which represents a significant portion of global pollution, encourages us to adopt similar principles.

The advantages

The renovation and transformation of existing buildings offer a multitude of advantages, including:

• Utilizing existing infrastructure such as road networks and public transportation, local services (schools, daycares, health services, cultural and leisure services, etc.), and municipal services (water supply, sanitary and storm sewers, natural gas, electricity, telecommunications).
• Compensating for the lack of new construction and minimizing environmental and economic impact.
• Breathing new life into underutilized spaces and areas by creating livable and dynamic spaces well integrated into the existing community fabric.
• Modernizing building systems, improving energy efficiency, and integrating sustainable design principles.
• Recreating stimulating living environments, promoting community life, strengthening local identity, and preserving collective memory.
• Preserving architectural and urban gems as a means of maintaining the identity and culture of our ancestors.

Support Initiatives

Recognizing the potential of building renovations and transformations to mitigate the effects of the housing crisis, various levels of government have introduced initiatives that, in summary, are as follows:

• Support programs for converting commercial buildings into housing, aimed at revitalizing certain areas and reusing buildings that have become vacant due to post-pandemic changes in habits.
• The repurposing of churches and other heritage buildings. These structures, increasingly abandoned due to high maintenance and upkeep costs, represent good opportunities for asset revitalization with strong potential to solve a problem while preserving gems of cultural and religious collective memory.
• The relaxation of certain regulatory standards, without compromising public safety, user health, or building longevity. This measure constitutes the assistance that other public actors are putting in place to lend a hand.
• Energy-efficient renovation programs that aim to encourage renovation while increasing energy efficiency. These programs may include the creation of new housing units or, failing that, contribute to reducing environmental impact.
• The densification of residential neighborhoods to maximize the use of existing infrastructure by making better use of land and resource management.
• Subsidy programs or low-interest loans to encourage the renovation and transformation of existing buildings into affordable housing.
• The creation of a tax credit for the renovation of multi-generational homes, offering financial assistance to families wishing to add secondary units to their houses. This measure aims to encourage the creation of affordable housing options while promoting intergenerational cohabitation and strengthening family support networks.

The Challenges

Numerous options may be available to us in the race to mitigate the impact of the crisis; however, the most important challenge is raising awareness so that each individual becomes an active part of the solution.

Once equipped with real awareness, we will be confronted with using the tools and programs at hand to manage the implementation of practices. We cannot depend solely on government programs, so innovation and proactivity will be the most important tools we will call upon to take charge. In all of this, the continuous distractions and complex life we all live today constitute the most arduous obstacles to overcome. I know well that these are conditions completely outside our subject of study, but we cannot pretend to omit such realities as elements that deprive us of the creative power that could make us part of the solution.

On the technical level, it is important to consider the challenges related to systems, components, and materials at the end of their useful life, which have been mostly neglected from a maintenance perspective and have been subjected for decades to environmental and usage conditions that go beyond reasonable limits.

Financially, we must keep in mind that the renovation and transformation of existing buildings involve very significant risks due to unpredictable situations. Our expertise and knowledge are vast, but we cannot claim to know everything. Experience repeatedly shows us that there are always lessons to be learned and great challenges to overcome. For each new unexpected situation encountered, it is always the financial aspect that allows us to deal with it, so the watchword is to provide ample and sufficient contingencies to make the process less overwhelming and more promising for all stakeholders and beneficiaries.

From a human perspective, a key consideration is the impact that renovations and transformations can have on the existing community, those directly affected and others who are rather indirectly affected, which obliges us to consider the different scales of intervention and impact. It is always prudent, even necessary, to plan processes for smooth change in order to allow people to accept the change without uprooting them body and soul.

It is crucial to involve community members and stakeholders throughout the process to ensure that changes are well-received and beneficial for the entire neighborhood, and especially to do our best so that these changes are a source of happiness, belonging, and cohesion for the individual and their community.

Conclusion

The renovation and transformation of existing buildings have the potential to stimulate economic growth, recreate built and living environments, and revitalize communities. Moreover, they can play a crucial role in promoting social equity and inclusion. There are already existing programs and implementation vehicles in place. However, all future possibilities lie in the initiative that the community will take itself, while considering the challenges to overcome.

By working together – professionals in the construction industry, policymakers, community members, and citizens in general – we can harness this potential to create stronger and more resilient communities and contribute to a more equitable society as a whole.