VIRTUAL: Livable Cities – New York
Abstract
There is a growing urgency to reduce environmental impacts across many areas. Repurposing and adapting existing buildings provides a valuable opportunity in this regard. Extending the useful life of buildings can significantly reduce energy and material consumption compared to demolishing and constructing new ones. Beyond the environmental benefits, this study highlights the potential for repurposed buildings to add aesthetic dimensions to projects. The trend of reviving abandoned buildings outside commercial districts has become increasingly noticeable in many cities such as Copenhagen. Often, these projects are achieved without extensive renovations, which contributes to sustainability goals. Additionally, these repurposed buildings serve as appealing excursion destinations for new users. To better understand the qualities of repurposed spaces, this study poses two questions: What are the common characteristics of coffee shops in repurposed buildings? And how do they add value for contemporary users? The research is based on observational studies in Copenhagen and on-site interviews with customers and store representatives. The findings suggest that users appreciate the following characteristics: coffee shops located in appealing yet unexplored neighborhoods; spaciousness; natural light; original historical constructions with an industrial style; and quiet surroundings. Additionally, users value the storytelling associated with these locations, which are conveyed both orally and visually through architectural and construction elements that recount the building’s previous history. These narratives can create commercial value while also contributing to community building and the creation of local identity.
Mia Münster is a Research Assistant Professor at PolyU School of Design in Hong Kong. She earned her PhD from Copenhagen Business School and holds master’s degrees in both Architecture and Design. Mia has over 20 years of professional experience as a Designer in the field of retail and hospitality design. Mia has published research on design processes, on the designer’s role in the transition to circular economy, and on the effect of designed spaces on their users. She is currently conducting cross-cultural studies of the design and culture found in coffee shops.
Veronika Dünser is a recent alumna from Austria, currently residing and employed in Copenhagen, Denmark. She holds a bachelor degree in Management and Economics from the University of Innsbruck, followed by a master’s degree in Brand and Communications Management from Copenhagen Business school. Her professional pursuits are currently focused in the field of marketing within the sports industry. In addition, she maintains a profound interest in architecture and interior design, with a particular fascination for adaptive reuse of existing structures.
Paula Randerath comes from Munich, where she currently lives and works. She recently completed her Master’s degree in Brand and Communications management at the Copenhagen Business School. Prior to her time in Copenhagen, she completed Bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Business Administration in Vienna. Professionally and privately she has a very strong interest in interior and design in general. She is currently working for an Italian fashion label.