Walking Tour Adaptive Use | Spring 2024

Adaptive Use

Master of Science in Historic Preservation Master of Resilient Urban Design School of Architecture

Overview

The Clemson Design Center in Charleston (CDC.C) is a distinguished hub housing an array of design and preservation programs. Situated within the historic Cigar Factory on East Bay Street, a structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places since its construction in 1881, the CDC.C offers an enriching academic environment.

Comprising studio space, classrooms, seminar rooms, laboratories, a library, multipurpose areas, and well-equipped shop spaces, the center is thoughtfully designed to facilitate comprehensive learning experiences. Additionally, it accommodates faculty and staff offices, providing a conducive space for collaboration and academic endeavors. The CDC.C stands as a testament to Clemson University's commitment to fostering excellence in design and preservation education.

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What is Adaptive Use?

Solt Wellness | Charleston

Adaptive use in historic buildings refers to the process of repurposing old or historically significant structures for new functions or uses, while preserving their architectural, cultural, and historical integrity. Rather than demolishing these buildings, which often have intrinsic value and character, adaptive use seeks to find innovative ways to make them relevant and useful in contemporary society.

This approach involves carefully planning and renovating the building to accommodate its new purpose while retaining key features that contribute to its historical significance. It often requires a balance between preserving the original character of the building and incorporating modern amenities or design elements to meet current standards and needs.

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Walking Tour

Charleston | Courtyard Housing

Imagine walking down the narrow, cobblestone streets of Charleston, South Carolina, where history whispers through the meticulously preserved architecture. As you wander through the city's historic neighborhoods, you can't help but notice the unique charm of Charleston courtyard housing.

Picture yourself strolling past rows of elegant townhouses, their pastel-hued facades adorned with intricate ironwork and lush greenery spilling over the wrought-iron gates. The streets feel intimate, almost as if each corner holds a secret waiting to be discovered.

As you peer down the narrow alleyways between the buildings, you catch glimpses of secluded courtyards tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfares.

These hidden oases, with their tranquil gardens and bubbling fountains, offer a glimpse into Charleston's storied past and provide a welcome retreat from the city's lively streets.

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Walking Tour

Charleston |Chasing Sage

The architecture tells a story of a bygone era, when life was simpler and community was at the heart of everyday living. Each townhouse, with its narrow frontage and sprawling layout, seems to beckon you inside, inviting you to step back in time and experience a slice of Charleston's rich history.

But Charleston courtyard housing isn't just about preserving the past; it's also about embracing the future. In recent years, many of these historic properties have been lovingly restored and adapted for modern living, blending old-world charm with contemporary comforts. As you admire the seamless integration of the old and the new, you can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for those who have worked tirelessly to protect Charleston's architectural heritage for generations to come.

Charleston courtyard housing reminds us to slow down, appreciate the beauty of our surroundings, and cherish the connections we share with our neighbors.

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“The adapt to think of a own project me see diffe have with t

“This whole understand reuse projec

“The tour was wonderful! I got a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse residential situation in Charleston and this program already has been one of the most educational experiences I've had during my undergraduate experience”

“I enjoyed was a very

tive use waking tour helped me alternative programs for my t this semester and also helped erent relationships the buildings the streets”

e outing really helped me d the different avenues adaptive cts can take :)”

the walking tour and thought it y helpful walk that better helped me for my studio project!”

“ I enjoyed the whole tour today it gave me inspiration for my concept design for historical preservation thank you for lunch today as well <33333”

“The adaptive use walk was amazing! I loved getting to see projects in my own neighborhood and learn about the history of them. I pass those buildings all the time and never knew how they became what they are today. I also enjoyed being with the other programs and getting to learn from their perspectives”

“The adaptiv some of the c such as C

“I thought it was really cool to be able to experience all the adaptive use projects and the street from a pedestrian's perspective”

“Something I thought was really cool was seeing at what length people take to preserve a building that's falling apart”

ve use tour put into perspective challenges facing a historic city Charleston and how they can be turned into exciting opportunities”

“The walk was a great learning experience!

I always enjoy being able to be immersed in the city for different educational purposes and I feel that it was great for other students to experience the architectural history of Charleston. I hope this opportunity continues on for us and for future students in the CDCC”

Gratitude and Appreciation Dear CDC.C Faculty, We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable support in organizing the walking tour of Charleston courtyard housing. Your dedication to enhancing the learning experience for our students has truly made a significant impact. By providing this immersive opportunity, you have enriched our understanding of architectural history and community dynamics.

Your commitment to academic excellence and innovative teaching methodologies is commendable, and we are deeply appreciative of your efforts to create meaningful learning experiences outside the classroom. Thank you for your unwavering support and collaboration in making this educational endeavor a success.

Warm regards, Students at CDC.C | Spring 2024 | MSHP | CACC | MRUD Participating Faculty Amalia Leifeste Director of Graduate Programs in Historic Preservation, Associate Professor Ashley Jennings Lecturer, Clemson Architecture Center in Charleston Bradford Watson Director of the Clemson Architecture Center Charleston, Associate Professor Charles Kane Lecturer, Master of Resilient Urban Design Erin F. Stevens Lecturer, Master of Resilient Urban Design

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"Gratitude to the Budget Center Business Officers: Thank you for supporting student learning at the Clemson Design Center in Charleston ."

The Adaptive Use walking tour was made possible by using the Clemson’s FY24 vending machine revenue fund .

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Clemson Design Center in Charleston 701 East Bay St., Suite 202 | Charleston SC, 29403 Phone: 843-723-1747