To convince a client that recycling a building would be better than demolishing it, the architects guaranteed that the formal, spatial and functional quality of the existing structure would be upgraded, including changing the mechanical and electrical systems. The architects explained the overall benefits, both in terms of economic savings (time and budget) and environmental savings (in terms of material and energy). The project was to reuse and remodel a present six-storey housing apartment complex (2800 m2) with 10 units located in a 755 m2 infill plot. Inspired from the snowy mountains and the natural landscape of the neighbouring regions, the new building saved 65 percent of the budget on construction materials and energy. Perhaps most importantly, the "recycled" building proves that the renovation, remodelling and design process can meet the owner’s expectations.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture