CARE: Centre for Adaptive and Regenerative Transition of the Built Environment

Research Project, 2027 – 2031

CARE is a national centre for research and learning on sustainable renovation, adaptive reuse and circular practices in the built environment. The centre brings together universities, local and regional authorities, property owners, construction and trades firms, and civil society organisations to develop and test new approaches to transforming existing buildings.

The starting point is that the sustainable society of the future must largely be built from what already exists. Instead of demolition and new construction, CARE develops knowledge on how buildings can be used more flexibly, resources utilised and materials reused, whilst strengthening social, cultural and economic values.

CARE combines research on architecture, construction technology, materials, craftsmanship, housing development and urban planning. Particular focus is placed on how practical knowledge, local material flows and adaptive working methods can be integrated into future construction and management processes.

The centre works on built environments across the country – from schools, hospitals and university campuses to residential areas and commercial properties. Through collaboration between research and practice, CARE develops new models for transformative management, reuse and socially sustainable housing provision.