Old Walls, New Homes

In a piece in PlaceShakers, Susan Henderson explores the transformative potential of adaptive reuse, using real-world examples like Philips Square in Winnipeg, MassMOCA, and Redlands Mall. It also provides actionable policy recommendations on zoning reform and funding strategies.

Henderson explores how spaces like Winnipeg’s Philips Square — a historic church now home to six apartments and a cultural hub — bring life back to communities. "Across the United States and Canada, cities are grappling with housing shortages and the challenge of revitalizing underutilized spaces. Vacant malls, abandoned factories, shuttered schools, and empty churches often sit idle, wasting valuable potential. But these structures don’t have to remain relics of the past. Through adaptive reuse, we can transform them into much-needed housing and thriving economic hubs."

Curious to learn how adaptive reuse can work in your city? Henderson has a few ideas to solve housing shortages, preserve historic architecture, and boost local economies.