Adaptive Reuse of Buildings
Recognising the untapped potential within our existing building stock is fundamental to achieving our sustainability objectives. We are dedicated to reducing embodied carbon and minimising other environmental impacts, such as biodiversity loss, by championing the adaptive reuse and repurposing of structures. As engineers, we appreciate the intrinsic value of existing buildings, which are often designed with considerable capacity and strength, making them ideal candidates for adaptation and enhancement.
We approach building reuse holistically, integrating our strategies into wider sustainability discussions with clients. Every challenge presents an opportunity. Our starting point is always that there is value in what already exists – it simply needs to be unlocked.
Featured Project
Former Maysfield Leisure Centre
The successful conversion of the former Maysfield Leisure Centre into the European headquarters of a global IT company, accommodating 1,500 employees, is one such example. By meticulously assessing the condition and structural capacity of the existing building, we justified that the original foundations could support three additional storeys of office accommodation.
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Featured Project
Killeaton House for Danske Bank
Built in 1999, Killeaton House consists of 23,500 sq. ft. of office space and parking across two storeys, originally designed with an open-air central courtyard. When Danske Bank, the building’s occupier, sought to upgrade and expand its workspace and amenities, Design ID was brought in to provide structural engineering solutions that would unlock additional floor area cost-effectively.
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Featured Project
McConnell's Distillery, Belfast
The Grade A listed Crumlin Road Gaol, designed by Charles Lanyon, is a landmark of strong cultural significance, having housed political prisoners. After its closure in 1996, the A-Wing remained derelict, while another wing became a tourist attraction and conference centre in 2010.
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Featured Project
Creative Industries, Weavers Court, Belfast
The adaptive reuse of an 1840s linen building, combined with a modern extension, has created flexible commercial, office, and research spaces at Weavers Court Business Park. Serving as the flagship for creative industries in Belfast City Centre, it offers 2000m² of versatile space for small to medium-sized enterprises, particularly in high-tech and TV/film sectors.
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