Benefits and Challenges
13
Infill Development
and Walkability
Institutions are often located in
walkable neighborhoods. Walkable
neighborhoods have been shown to
perform better economically as many
people prefer to reside and shop in a
neighborhood with walkable destinations.
History and Heritage
Adaptive reuse is a way to preserve
unique buildings and landscapes. These
properties offer visible evidence of our
important cultural heritage for which
the Philadelphia region is recognized.
Without these places, a connection to
the past is lost. Institutional properties
should be preserved even if they do
not hold a historic designation because
they are recognized as significant to the
community. For instance, the former
United Methodist Church of Narberth,
though not historically designated when
purchased by Main Line ReBUILD, was a
local landmark, and as such was subject
to the local Historic Architectural Review
Board (HARB). The HARB review ensured
the final result was harmonious with its
surroundings. Every time a building is
reused, it signifies the commitment of a
large and dedicated group of individuals.
Landscape
The landscape surrounding an
institutional property often is perceived
to be a public amenity, therefore,
preserving as much as possible should
be the primary goal. Conservation
easements with local preservation
groups or volunteer interest groups
can contribute to the preservation of
grounds.
We shape our buildings,
and then our buildings
shape us.
– Winston Churchill
Downtown Lansdale, a walkable community.
Groundbreaking for the adaptive reuse of the Perkiomen Valley
Middle School, Trappe.
