#adaptive-reuse — Public Fediverse posts on home.social

Nam Henderson @[email protected] · 2026-08-04 · 04:43 UTC

"At 29 rue Nollet in Paris, a 1930s car park..has been transformed into a social housing residence offering 83 subsidised units...The partial reconstruction used prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels and timber-frame walls with wood-fibre insulation – a fully dry, bio-based supply chain." https://archinect.com/news/bustler/11086/new-european-architecture-recognized-with-best-architects-27-awards re: #adaptivereuse #Biosourcé et al.

#biosource #adaptivereuse

Nam Henderson @[email protected] · 2026-07-25 · 04:09 UTC

"Instead of demolishing the ageing 1970s  Hertford Theatre, the council-led project retains the original structure, wrapping it in a new striking hexagonal brick form that houses a cinema and events space. Extensive use of cross-laminated timber, an all-electric energy supply and crucially the retention of the original building, establishes BEAM as a compelling model for retrofit." https://archinect.com/news/bustler/11078/six-projects-make-2026-stirling-prize-shortlist-for-uk-s-best-new-building #adaptivereuse #StirlingPrize

#stirlingprize #adaptivereuse

Ionuț Popa @[email protected] · 2026-06-21 · 09:33 UTC

Inspiring works and debates were on display last Friday by the 3rd year architecture students of @UniversitedeLiege with projects questioning the Fortress of Sant'Andrea, located in the venetian lagoon.

Great jury together with Philippe Vander Maren, Sampling architecture, Atelier Chora and Marine Urbain.

#architecture #jury #architecturaldesign #venezia #venice #liège #adaptivereuse #microclima #iuav #venicelagoon #venetianlagoon #landscapearchitecture #ArchitectureStudent #belgium #italy

#architecture #jury #architecturaldesign #venezia #venice #liege

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-06-18 · 14:01 UTC

Lansing’s New Fish Ladder Music Park Climbs the Charts!

Source: our community.org

Wildly popular local 1980s tribute band, Starfarm, recently helped christen the new Fish Ladder Music Park amphitheater in the heart of Lansing, Michigan.

Photo by jkb

Inspired by the success of previous events along the Grand River, such as “Dam Jam,” the 1981 Brenke Fish Ladder in Lansing’s Old Town district has been beautifully transformed into an engaging outdoor performance venue with terraced seating for 350 attendees, while continuing to serve its original purpose.

Love the mural ! – Photo by jkb

Originally designed for aiding and observing salmon and trout on their journey to spawning grounds further upstream, the fish ladder will now also help spawn up-and-coming new artists, while also providing a unique venue for more established music veterans.

Photo by jkb

“This park features a permanent performance stage and seating inside the fish ladder along with an electric forest illuminating the park, bench swings, a gas fireplace and numerous accessibility features.” – Lansing.org

Fish Ladder Music Park design – Source: Lansingcitypulse.com

As a retired urban planner who resided in the Lansing area for many years, The Fish Ladder Music Park is a novel and exciting addition to the entire Michigan music scene. To adapt such an important resource into a multi-purpose facility that serves both environmental protection and live art performance functions at the same time, is great placemaking at its very best. Well done, Lansing!

Needless to say, some of our aquatic friends are going to be “schooled” on some great music while swimming their way through Lansing’s Old Town.

Peace!

Starfarm in action – Photo by jkb #adaptiveReuse #art #BrenkeFishLadder #cities #entertainment #FishLadderMusicPark #Lansing #Michigan #music #planning #urbanPlanning

#adaptivereuse #art #brenkefishladder #cities #entertainment #fishladdermusicpark

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-06-15 · 07:00 UTC

Estonia’s Water Towers (Veetornid): Soviet-era Modernism and More!

Listed below are identified water towers (veetoenid) of Estonia. There are likely more than listed, but these are the ones found to date from resources across the internet. As additional information is collected, the list will be updated accordingly.

What quickly becomes apparent when researching water towers in Estonia, are the substantial Soviet-era water tower residences (veetorn-elamu). These formidable modernist buildings place a large storage water tank atop a multi-story residential high-rise. The veetorn-elamu are often the tallest building in the city/town where they were built. Examples from below include towers in Narva, Kuressaare, Paide, Vändra, Tabasalu, and Viljandi.

Source: ajapaik.ee Arsenal Veetorn (2027) – Sources: liven.ee

Putting an adaptive reuse twist on the mix of water tower and residences, the two images above show the historic 1914 Erika Street “Arsenal” Veetorn in Tallin, which is being converted from a water tower into a residential tower with added units atop the base structure. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.

Peace/Rahu!

Translatations

Elamu = residential building
Nuia = club
Raudteejaama = railway station
Vana = old
Veetorn = water tower
Veetornid = water towers

Narva Veetorn-Elamu (1969): Narva ~ 47 m/154.2 feet

Soviet-era image of the Narva Veetorn-Elamu – Source: ajapaik.ee

2. “Bekker” Kopli Veetorn (1914): Tallinn = 42 m/137.8 feet

3. Kuressaare Veetorn-Elamu (1960s): Saaremaa Island ~ 41 m/134.5 feet

Kuressaare Veetorn-Elamu – Source: en.wikipedia.org

4. Paide Veetorn-Elamu (1978): Paide ~ 40 m/131.2 feet

Paide Veetorn-Elamu – Source: jarvateataja.postimees.ee

5. Erika Street “Arsenal” Veetorn (1914): Tallinn – being converted and elevated to provide residences = 37.8 m/124 feet

6. Karksi-Nuia Veetorn (1994): Karksi-Nuia = 35 m/114.8 feet

Karksi-Nuia Veetorn – Source: ebers.se

7. Tõnismägi Veetorn (1882): Tallinn = 33.8 m/110.9 feet

8. Proposed Veetorn: Tallinn = 33 m/108.3 feet

Proposed Veetorn in Tallinn – Source: news.err.ee

9. Viljandi Vana Veetorn (1911): Viljandi = 30 m/98.4 feet

10. Vändra Veetorn-Elamu (1975): Vändra ~ 30 m/98.4 feet

Vändra Veetorn-Elamu – Source: ristofoto.com

11. Kana Veetorn: Pärnu = 24 m/78.7 feet

12. Tõrma/Rakvere Veetorn: Rakvere = 22 m/72.2 feet

13. Raudteejaama Veetorn (1870): Aegviidu = 20 m/65.6 feet

Source: instagram.com

14. Risti Veetorn (1905): Risti = 18 m/59.1 feet

15. Lasva Vana Veetorn: Lasva = 12 m/39.4 feet – now an art gallery

Need more information:

Abja-Paluoja Veetorn
Antsla Veetorn (1889?)
Aseri Veetorn
Ellamaa Veetorn
Elva Veetorn
Haapsalu Veetorn
Harju Maakond Veetorn
Harku Veetorn
Jõhvi Veetorn
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Keila
Kiviõli Veetorn
Kohtla-Järve Veetorn
Kukruse Veetorn
Maardu Veetorn
Mingi Veetorn
Mustvee Veetorn
Kreenholm Veetorn: Narva
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Narva
Nõo Veetorn
Patika Veetorn
Peeterristi (Vaivara) Veetorn
Põlva Veetorn
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Püssi
Raasiku Veetorn
Sindi Veetorn
Suure-Jaani Veetorn
Suurpea 1 Veetorn
Tabasalu Veetorn-Elamu (1981): Tabasalu

Tabasalu Veetorn-Elamu – Source: ristofoto.com

Tagadi Veetorn
Estonian Maritime Academy: Tallinn
Kristiine Katlamaja and Tonismagi Veetorn (1882): Tallinn
Laevastiku Veetorn: Tallinn
Luther Plywood and Furniture Factory: Tallinn
Noblessner Shipyard Veetorn (1915): Tallinn

Noblessner Shipyard Veetorn – Source: journals.sagepub.com

Rocca al Mare Veetorn: Tallinn
Seewaldi Hospital Veetorn (1903): Tallinn
Tallinn-Väike Raudteejaama Veetorn (1901): Tallinn
Telliski Veetorn: Tallinn
Ülemiste “Dvigateli” Veetorn: Tallinn
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Tamsalu
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Tapa
Raadi Manor Veetorn: Tartu – now a museum
Tartu Brewery Veetorn
Tatari Veetorn
Toila Veetorn
Türi Raudteejaama Veetorn: Türi
Vasalemma Veetorn
Raudteejaama Veetorn: Viljandi
Jakobsoni 3 Veetorn-Elamu: Viljandi

Jakobsoni 3 Veetorn-Elamu – Source: Facebook.com

SOURCES:

#adaptiveReuse #cities #elamu #Estonia #Europe #fun #geography #highrises #history #landUse #planning #preservation #residential #skylines #SovietEra #tourism #travel #veetorn #veetornid #waterTowers

#adaptivereuse #cities #elamu #estonia #europe #fun

Ionuț Popa @[email protected] · 2026-06-14 · 21:39 UTC

Hello! Joining the flock:

#Architect and #VisualArtist based in #Brussels. My work spans mostly between #Belgium and #Romania, with focus towards #collective, #sustainable and #adaptivereuse means into the #builtenvironment.

As a multidisciplinary practice, my soup of interests includes: #architecture #design #architecturaldesign #belgianarchitecture #romanianarchitecture #europeanarchitecture #scenography #drawing #illustration #art #ecology #foss

https://ionutpopa.com
#introduction

#architect #visualartist #brussels #belgium #romania #collective

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-06-08 · 09:00 UTC

Cartoon Alley: Nappanee’s Outdoor Comic Strip Museum

Photo by the author

For the second time in as many years we’ve had the opportunity to visit an incredible remaking of an alley in small town Indiana. Last year it was Ohki Alley in Columbia City, Indiana and now in 2026 it was Cartoon Alley in Nappanee.

Nappanee (red dot) in relation to other cities – Source: maps.google.com

Situated but a few steps south of Nappanee’s bustling downtown crossroads is Cartoon Alley, so named as six (6) well-known animators/commercial artists have hailed from this quaint Amish tourist town of 6,877 (2026 est.).

Photo by the author

Adorning the newly painted brick and mortar alley walls are six (6) humorous and colorful panels of famous comic strips from four (4) of the artists whose comic strips were published in newspapers across the nation. A separate panel highlights their careers and personal histories (see below).

Photo by the author

The comic strip cartoonists highlighted include Merrill Blosser, Bill Holman, Fred Neher, and Max Gwin. Two other illustrators, Henry Maust and Francis “Mike” Parks, who worked in commercial arts and editorial cartoons respectively are noted on the panel, as well as on an Indiana State Historic Marker located in front of Nappanee Public Library.

Photo by the authorPhoto by the author

“Bill [Holman] also drew ‘Spooky & Foo‘. The word ‘Foo’ became a household name and turned into a catch phrase across the nation. The 415th Night Fighter Squadron adopted Holman’s ‘Foo Fighters’ to describe the unexplainable lights they observed flying beside them over Germany during World War II. The fifteen-time Grammy and five-time Rock Album of the Year Award winning band, The Foo Fighters, carried Holman’s legacy to another generation”
– Cartoon Alley Panel
Source: mycomicshop.com

Photo by the authorPhoto by the author

Other placemaking features of this beautified strip of city pavement include a metal archway, curved benches with matching lights, as well as flower-filled pots.

Photo by the author

And…the best news is that Nappanee is not done yet with their remarkable makeover of its alleys. Directly across Main Street from Cartoon Alley will be Shoe Alley (or Aisle) which will commemorate the town’s noted shoemaking history.

Future Shoe Alley (Aisle) – Photo by the author Artist’s depiction of future Shoe Alley (or Aisle) in Nappanee, IN – Source: Facebook, com

Needless to say, these wonderful additions to the townscape are perfect tools for maintaining the health and vitality of downtown. Congratulations to the good folks of Nappanee, Indiana whose hometown pride has been manifested into a charming, interesting, and enjoyable outdoor historic museum for all to enjoy and partake.

Peace!

Cartoon Alley at night – Source: vibrantelkhartcounty.org #adaptiveReuse #alleys #art #CartoonAlley #cartoons #cities #comicStrips #downtown #FooFighters #fun #historicMarker #history #Indiana #landUse #music #Nappanee #planning #ShoeAlley #tourism #transportation #travel #walking

#adaptivereuse #alleys #art #cartoonalley #cartoons #cities

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-03-23 · 09:00 UTC

Water towers with flair: Tallest ‘vattentorn’ of Sweden

Arctura “The Thermos” – Source: kreativteknik.se

Sweden has a wide-variety of beautiful water towers and continues to build architecturally stylish ones today. Over time brick and stone has eventually given way to concrete construction. Despite this conversion, many of the newer concrete water tower designs are quite breathtakingly beautiful.

Incredible Våga (Dare) Vattentorn (2024) – Source: whitearkitekter.com

The images provided throughout the post will attest to the pride (and flair) Sweden puts into its water tower design and especially their care, upkeep, and maintenance. With translated names and nicknames like “Dare”, “Reflektion”, “the Thermos”, “Shelf”, “Echo”, “Blue Spider”, and “Mushroom”, it would be safe to safe that Sweden’s wonderful collection of water towers is among the most (if not the most) dynamic of all nations.

Another important aspect of Swedish water towers is how many older ones have been adapted for new uses once their productive lifespan as a storage facility ended. Apartments, student housing, office buildings, condominiums, observation towers, and even an observatory are just some of the reuses employed there. It’s too bad such preservation and adaptation efforts are not utilized more often here in the United States. The brick and concrete construction materials likely lend themselves better to adaptive reuse than metal and composite materials.

It was also impressive to notice older water towers being reimagined, reinvigorated, and reused for water storage by employing newer designs during updating and restoration programs. See the example from the Stockholm suburb of Tensta just below.

Tensta before- Source: stockholmvattenochavfall.se Tensta after: Source: stockholmvattenochavfall.se

The most common water tower heights identified tended to fall between 20 and 32 meters (66-105 feet) in height, though there are a vast range in heights. The list provided does not include railway water tanks/towers nor water towers below 10 meters in height. A glossary of common Swedish terms you may see while reading the list has been provided, as well. As more data is located, the list will be updated accordingly.

Peace!

Beneath “Reflektion Water Tower (2023) – Source: lasovskyjohansson.com

Glossary:

Gamla = old
Norr – north
Ny or Nya = new
Östra = east
Reservoaren = reservoir (some of which are elevated in Sweden)
Söder = south
Väg = way
Vägen = road or the road
Väster/ut = west
Vattentorn = water tower
Vattentornet = the water tower

_______

Flemingsberg Vattentorn (1973): Huddinge-Stockholm ~ 100 m/328 feet

Flemingsberg – Source: sv.wikipedia.org

2. Gamla Vattentorn (1904): Landskrona = 66 m/216.5 feet – converted to apartments in 1992

3. Landskrona Vattentorn (1970): Landskrona = 65.9 m/216 feet

4-5. Gamla Vattentornet (1900): Kalmar – converted to housing in 1984 and Arctura “The Thermos” (2003): Östersund= 65 m/213.3 feet

6. Hyllie Vattentorn (1973): Malmö = 62 m/203 feet – see image below

Hyllie (Shelf) – Source: linkedin.com

7-8. Svampen “Mushroom” Vattentorn (1958): Örebro and Gamla Vattentornet (1911): Trelleborg = 58 m/190.3 feet

9. Södervärnstornet (1916): Malmö = 54 m/177.2 feet

10. Gamla Vattentornet (1898): Skara = 52 m/170.6 feet

Skara – Source: sv.wikipedia,org

11. Studsvik Vattentorn (1961): Nyköping = 51 m/167.3 feet

12. Katrineholm Old Vattentorn (1905): Stockholm-Katrineholm = 49.2 m/161.4 fee

13. Östra Esplanaden Vattentorn (1965): Älmhult = 49 m/160.7 feet

14. Boländerna Vattentorn (1970): Uppsala = 48 m/157.5 feet

Boländerna – Source: via.tt.se

15. Jarlabergs Vattentorn (1987): Stockhom-Nacka = 47.5 m/158.8 feet

16. Linköping Vattentorn (1958): Linköping = 46 m/151 feet – now contains 10 condominiums

Linköping – Source: lanstidningen.se

17. Nya Vattentornet (1972): Kalmar = 45.5 m/149.3 feet

18-21. Stocksund Vattentorn (1910): Danderyd – now a private residence; Gamla Vattentornet (1907): Norrköping – now student housing; Gamla Vattentornet (1902): Lidköping; and Lunden’s Vattentorn (1930): Göteborg = 45 m/147.6 feet

22-23. Storvreten/Tumba Vattentorn (1966): Stockholm and Gamla Vattentornet (1882/1911) Vänersborg = 43 m/147.6 feet

24. Gamla Vattentornet (1905): Västervik = 42 m/137.8 feet

25-28. Helsingborg/Filborna Vattentorn (2020) Helsingborg; Sätra Vattentorn (1969): Stockholm; Johannebergs Vattentorn (1924): Göteborg – now apartments; and Åsgatan Vattentorn (1961): Ljungby = 40 m/131.2 feet

Magnificent monumental Helsingborg/Filborna Vattentorn – Source: mynewsdesk.com

29. Katrineholm Nya Vattentorn (1969): Stockholm-Katrineholm ~ 39.5 m/129.6 feet

30-31. European Highway 22 Vattentorn (1960): Mönsterås and Berga Hage Vattentorn (1958): Linköping = 39 m/128 feet

32-33. Gamla Vattentornet (1897): Eksjö and Marierovägen Nya Vattetntorn (1960): Vänersborg = 38 m/124.6 feet

34-36. Bergshamra Vattentorn (1951): Stockholm Länna Vattentorn (1966): Stockholm-Huddinge; and Nya Östra Linnégatan Vattentorn (1957): Kumla= 37 m/121.4 feet

37. Nya Vattentornet (1958): Oskarshamn = 36 m/118.1 feet

38-41. Bjärnum Vattentorn (1967): near Kristianstad and Skillnadsgatan Vattentorn x 3 (1958): Trollhättan – see photo at the bottom of the list = 35 m/114.8 feet

42-43. Hedenäset Vattentorn (1966): Övertorneå and Gamla Vattentornet (1909): Lund – observatory added in 2000 (not sure if height includes it) = 34 m/111.5 feet

Lund – Source: sv.wikipedia.org

44-48. Marieberg-Tornsvalevägen Vattentorn (1966): Umeå; Tornstigen Vattentorn (1969): Åsbro; Högalidsgatan Vattentorn (1964): Pålsboda; Tornvägen Vattenton (1961): Kimstad; and Alva Vattentorn (1980): Alva = 33 m/108.3 feet

49-56. Segersjö Vattentorn (1946): Stockholm; Nyköping/Tystberga Vattentorn (1967): Nyköping; Orminge Vattentorn (1971): Stockholm-Nacka; Mosebacke/Fiskargatan Vattentorn (1896): Stockholm; Gustavsberg Vattentorn (1964): Varmdo; Hedesunda Vattentorn (1964): Gävle; Lidköping Vattentorn (1964): Lidköping; and Fröjastigen Vatentorn (1951): Örnsköldsvik = 32 m/105 feet

57-58. Stockholm/Högdalen Vattentorn (1962): Stockholm-Högdalen and Skolgatan Vattentorn (1907): Askersund = 31 m/101.7 feet

59-60. Valstavägen Vattentorn (1967): Odensbacken and Wear Vattentorn (1955) Wear = 30 m/98.4 feet

61. Torngatan Gamla Vattentorn (1917): Ljusdal ~ 30m/98.4 feet

62-63. Aringsåsvägen Vattentorn (1959): Alvesta and Bolagsvägen Vatentorn (1955): Skärblacka = 29 m/95.1 feet

64. Hemmesta “Reflektion” Vattentorn (2023): Hemmesta/Stockholm – also see image near the top of the blog post = 28.9 m/94.8 feet

“Reflektion” – Source: lasovskyjohansson.com

65-73. Våga Vattentorn (2024): Varberg; Djursholms Vattentorn (1890): Danderyd; Teleborg “Echo” Vattentorn (1974): Växjö; Tullinge Vettentorn (1957): Stockholm; Gnesta/Fjällgatan Vattentorn (Old Tower – 1914): Gnesta; Vagnhärad Vattentorn (1970): Trosa; Valbo Vattentoen (1957): Gävle; Forserum Vattentorn (1962): Nässjö; and Gene-Utsiktsvägen Vattentorn (1955): Örnsköldsvik = 28 m/91.9 feet

73-83. Skärsätra Vattentorn (1912): Stockholm-Skärsätra; Botildenborgs Vattentorn (1949): Malmö; Hembygdsparken Vattentorn (1963): Nässjö; Hammarby-Petres väg Vattentorn (1959): Sandviken; Iggesund-Forsavägen Vattentorn (1965): Hudiksvall; Råneå Vattentorn (1955): Luleå; Kirseberg Vattentorn (1879): Malmö – now contains 20 apartments; Idrottsvägen Vattentorn (1961): Laxå; Vallgatan Vallentorn (1964): Fjugesta; Old Skaraborg Nya Vattentorn (1965): Skara; and Kolstad Kyrkogata Vattentorn (1955): Köpingsvik = 27 m/88.6 feet

Kirseberg – Source: sv.wikipedia.org

84-85. Forsbacka Vattentorn (1953): Gävle and Hörnefors-Hantverkargatan Vattentorn (1958): Umeå = 26 m/85.3 feet

86. Slottsskogen Vattentornet (1899): Göteborg ~ 26 m/85.3 feet

87-94. Handen Vattentorn x 2 (1964/1994): Stockholm-Handen; Vattengatan Vattentorn (1960): Aneby; Delsbo-Kalvstigen Vattentorn (1962): Hudiksvall; Holmsund-Parkvägen Vattentorn (1952): Umeå; Bergnäset Vattentorn (1959): Luleå; Munksund-Borevägen Vattentorn (1955): Piteå; and Kvarnbacksvägen Vattentorn (1955): Vadstena = 25 m/82 feet

95-96. Tensta (Hjulsta) Vattentorn (1969): Stockholm and Bragegatan Gamla Vattentorn (1899): Oxelösund ~ 25 m/82 feet

97-98. Oxelögatan Ny Vattentorn (1963): Oxelösund; Vetlanda Vattentorn (1963): Vetlanda; and Skogsvägen Vattentorn (1962): Västervik = 24 m/78.7 feet

99-100. The Hällabrottet/Kalkugnsgatan Vattentorn (1963): Kumla and Rötkärrsvägen Vattentorn (1964): Lotorp = 23 m/75.5 feet

101-105. Tullinge Vattentorn (1934): Stockholm; Guldhedens Vattentorn (1953): Göteborg; Bergby Vattentorn (1961): Gävle; Töre Vattentorn (1967): Kalix; and Malmsborgsgatan Vattentorn (1964): Borgholm = 22 m/72.2 feet

Guldhedens Vattentorn in Göteborg – Source: goteborg.se

106-109. Skolgatan Vattentorn (1953): Hultsfred; Vattugatan Vattentorn (1955): Oskarshamn; Färila-Kilbovägen Vattentorn (1955): Ljusdal; and Nya Vattentornet (1959): Ödeshög = 21 m/68.9 feet

110-113. Norrsundet-Fabriksvägen Vattentorn (1952): Gävle; Uggleviksreservoaren (1935): Stockholm; Sillagatan/Tornstigen Vattentorn (1955): Åbytorp; and Harabergsgatan Vattentorn (1965): Herrljunga = 20 m/65.6 feet

114-115. Tallbarrsgatan Vattentorn (1956): Kristdala and Åkerbacken Vattentorn (1951): Lycksele = 19 m/62.3 feet

116-120. Gävle-Bomhus Reservoaren (1952): Gävle; Hille Vattentorn (1952): Gävle; Morjärv-Backgatan Vattentorn (1956): Kalix; Torngatan Vattentorn (1954): Hallsberg; and Kilsmo Vattentorn (1951): Kilsmo = 18 m/59 feet

121-124. Nya Vattentornet (1958): Västervik; Finspång Vattentorn (1956): Limmared- Åsgatan Vattentorn (1952): Finspång; and Glasbruksvägen Vattntorn (1958): Rejmyre = 17 m/55.8 feet

124-126. Åseda Torpagatan Vattentorn (1961): Uppvidinge; Edsbruk Kärrgatan Vattentorn (1952): Västervik; and Karlsborg-Tornstigen Vattentorn (1952): Kalix = 14 m/45.9 feet

127-129. Kvarnbergsparken Vattentorn (1900): Borås; Kungsör Vattentorn (1910): Kungsör; and Furuvik-Barrvägen Vattentorn (1955): Lycksele = 13 m/42.6 feet

130. Genvägen Vattentorn (1961): Pajala = 12 m/39.4 feet

131. Ljugarn Vattentorn (1960): Ljugarn = 11 m/36 feet

132-135. Stuvsta Vattentorn (1952): Stockholm-Huddinge; Stromstad Vattentorn (1956): Strömstad; and Strängnäs/Mariefred Vattentorn (1988): Stockholm-Strängnäs = 10 m/32.8 feet

Triple Skillnadsgatan Vattentorn in Trollhättan Source: eidar.se

________

More information needed:

Åmål, new
Aneby, Sundhultsbrunn, Morgonstigen
Ånim forest
Asarp
Berg, Hackås, Näsvägen
Björnhovda
Boden, Gunnarsbyn
Boden, Unbyn
Bollnäs, Tornvägen
Borås Vattentorn (1900):
Borås, Kvarnbergsparken
Borås Spinneri
Bräcke, Kälarne
Ed, Kronoparksvägen
Ekeby Vattentorn (1908): Stockholm – now a private residence
Ektorps Vattentorn (1950s): Stockholm-Nacka
Emmaboda, Rasslebygd
Filborna Vattentorn
Fish Farm Vattentorn:
Floda, Uddared, Stakebergsvägen
Frändefors, Lindgatan
Gamla Vattentornet (1903): Sala
Gävle, Sätra
Gävle, Hagaström
Gislaved, Hulugårdsvägen
Gislaved, Reftele, Jättevägen
Gislaved, Smålandsstenar, Furugatan
Gnesta, Platåvägen (New Tower)
Gnosjö, Säterivägen
Götene
Goteborg, Gårdsten, Malörtsgatan (1969)
Goteborg, Kortedala, Helgdagsgatan (1955)
Goteborg, Bergsjön, Atmosfärgatan (1966)
Goteborg, Björkekärr, Träringen
Goteborg, Biskopsgården, Solvädersbyn (1959)
Goteborg, Sisjön, Varpmossevägen
Goteborg, Landala, Övre Besvärsgatan (1889)
Goteborg, Sankt Jörgen, Bokskogsbacken
Goteborg, Gamlestaden, Slakthusgatan, Slakthus
Gusum, Skogsborgsvägen
Habo, Tornstigen
Haparanda
Haparanda, Grankullen
Haparanda, Köpmansgatan
Haparanda, Nikkala, Hamnvägen
Henån, Balders väg
Henriksdal Vattentorn:
Horn, Höjdvägen
Horred, Sjöbo West Road
Hultsfred, Silverdalen, Parkvägen
Högsjö, Forest Road
Högsby Vattentorn
Högsby, Berga, Kyrkvägen
Hudiksvall, Delsbo, Bondebo
Hudiksvall, Galgberget
Hudiksvall, Sörforsa, Fredriksbergsvägen
Härjedalen, Ytterhogdal, Framnäsvägen
Jarlaberg Vattentorn:
Kalix, Stigmansgatan
Karlsborg, Final Fortress
Karlsborg, Svartfjällsvägen
Kilsmo
Klädesholmen, Olles Hall
Kolmården
Kristianstad Vattentorn: Kristianstad
Krokom, Lyckes väg
Kumla, Gamla-South King’s Road (1914)
Kvarntorp
Linköping, Slakthuset
Ljusdal, Färila, Rosbacken Hyttebovägen
Ljusfallshammar
Lyrestad, Lyrestadsvägen
Mantorp, Magasinsvägen
Mariestad, Högelid, Stockholmsvägen Nyr
Mariestad, Högelid, Stockholmsvägen Gamla
Markaryd, Strömsnäsbruk, Wennerbergsgatan
Mellerud, Rostocksgatan
Mjölby, Torngatan
Mönsterås, Blomstermåla, Vattentornsvägen
Mönsterås, Fliseryd, Movägen
Mönsterås, Bankeberg, Bankebergs Gård (1910) – now an apartment
Motala, Bondebacka, Radiovägen
Mullsjö, Gunnarsbovägen
Munkedal, Västervägen
Norrköping, Ektorpsgatan (Gamla vattentornet)
Norrköping, Kättsätter
Norra Guldhedens Vattentorn (1935), Göteborg – converted to student housing in 2008
Norsholm
Norsjö, Bågvägen
Nybro, Algatan
Nyköping, Lindö Farm Vattentorn (1805):
Nykvarn Vattentorn:
Ny Östra Vatterntorn (1975): Lund
Nya Vattentornet (1970s): Eksjö
Nynashamn, Torngatan
Nynashamn, Horningen
Ockelbo, Rävbacksvägen
Ödeborg, Museum Road
Örby, Trädgårdsvägen
Örnsköldsvik, Långviksmon, Ripstigen
Oskarshamn, Fridhemsgatan (Gamla vattentornet)
Östad, Björkvägen
Ovanåker, Edsbyn, Hembygdsgatan
Partille, Furulund
Partille, Sörlyckan
Piteå, Rågrindsvägen
Porla, Southern Calm
Rävlanda
Robertsfors, Stantorsgatan
Robertsfors, Ånäset, Tornvägen
Salem, Söderbyvägen
Salem, Söderby Park – converted to housing
Sandviken, Björnhagsparken
Sandviken, Barrsätra
Sandviken, Kungsgården, Ovansjövägen
Sandviken, Järbo, Allmogevägen
Sandviken, Årsunda, Tornstigen
Sandviken, Österfärnebo, Lingonguppet
Sandviken, Sandvik AB
Skänninge, Vadstenagatan
Skara, Eskilsgatan Gamla Vattentorn (1898)
Skellefteå, Lövånger, Platsvägen
Skellefteå, Skelleftehamn, Svangatan
Skellefteå, Skelleftehamn, Hamnberget
Skellefteå, Ursviken, Ankarvägen
Skene, Sandvallsäng
Sköllersta, Dalskogsvägen/Treuddsvägen
Smögen, Glommebergsvägen
Söderhamn, Åsberget
Söderkoping, Tornvägen
Sorsele, Östanåvägen
Stenstorp
Stockholm/Slakthuset Vattentorn
Stockholm/Triangle Vattentorn (1959)
Strängnäs/Sundby Vattentorn: Stockholm-Strängnäs
Strömsund, Backe, Gamla vägen
Strömsund, Hoting, Tornvägen
Strömsund, Hammerdal, Häradsvägen
Sundsvall, Svartvik, Hyvelvägen (1862)
Tanumshede (new tower)
The Tree, Torngatan
Trollhättan, Queen’s Square
Trollhättan, Sylt
Trollhättan, Skogshöjden
Trollhättan, Strömslund, Torsbergsgatan
Två Central Station Vattentorn: Kristianstad
Tyresö, Fårdala
Uddevalla, Dalaberg, Lillmossegatan
Ullervad, Forsvägen
Umeå, Teg
Umeå, Obbola, Tornvägen
Umeå, Sävar
Valdemarsvik, Granbrinken
Valla Vattentorn: Stockholm-Katrineholm
Valsta Vattentorn (1965):
Vänersborg, AF Carlssons street (Old Tower)
Vetlanda, Korsberga, Bygdegårdsvägen
Vimmerby, Storebro, Vattentornsvägen
Vimmerby, Södra Vi, Parkgatan
Vingåker, Oak Street
Vingåker, Åsvägen
Visby, Peder Hardings väg (1923)
Värnamo, Magnusgatan
Västervik, Ankarsrum, Jonas Spånbergs väg
Västervik, Gunnebo, Ödängsvägen
Vindeln, Hällnäs, Parkvägen, Sanatoriet

SOURCES:

#adaptiveReuse #cities #design #Europe #history #preservation #skylines #stats #Sweden #tourism #travel #vattentorn #water #waterTowers

#adaptivereuse #cities #design #europe #history #preservation

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-03-02 · 12:00 UTC

Tallest historic vandtårn (water towers) of Denmark

Provided below is a working list of the tallest historic vandtårn (water towers) in Denmark. A minimum height of 10 meters was required for inclusion. The dates of original completion range from as early as 1877 up to 1992. When height information is found for the water towers at the end of the index, they will be added to the main list.

Esbjerg Vandtårn – Source: cycling-holiday.com

Viewing the photographs of these towers online, many resemble lighthouses, which would tend to make sense given Denmark is nearly surrounded by water. Though only in one instance identified was a water tower and lighthouse combined into one structure. Castle-like turrets also appear to be a common architectural feature.

Peace!

_______

Jægersborg Vandtårn (now housing) – Source: danske-vandtårne.dk Research Center Risø Vandtårn – Source: Source: danske-vandtårne.dk

1-2. Jægersborg Vandtårn (1955): Copenhagen and Research Center Risø Vandtårn (1959): Roskilde = 45 m/147.6 feet

3. Kokkedal Vandtårn (1972): Kokkedal = 44 m/144.4 feet

4-5. Falster Vandtårn (1908): Nykøbing and Rødbyhavn Vandtårn (1962): Rødby = 43 m/141 feet

6. Kolding Vandtårn (1967): Kolding = 42 m/137.8 feet

7. Det Gamle Vandtårn (1908): Struer = 41.5 m/136.1 feet – upgraded in 1951 and 2000

8-10. Tønder Vandtårn (1902): Tønder; Vandtårnet på Sjællandsvej (1967): Kolding; and Vandtårnet i Tyrsted (1983): Tyrsted = 40 m/131.2 feet

11-13. Randersvej Vandtårn (1908): Aarhus; Det Røde Vandtårn (1924): Haderslev; Oliefabriksvejs Vandtårn (1935): Tårnby = 38 m/124.7 feet

Det Røde Vandtårn – Source: da.wikipedia.org

14-15. Hvidovre Vandtårn (1937): Hvidovre and Englandsvejs Vandtårn (1928): Tårnby = 36 m/118.1 feet

16-17. Nysted Vandtårn (1913): Nysted and Vandtårnet ved Blegdammen (1934): Køge = 35 m/114.8 feet

18-20. Brønshøj Vandtårn (1928): Copenhagen; Roskilde Vandtårn (1960): Roskilde; and Skagen Vandtårn (1934): Skagen = 34 m/111.5 feet

Roskilde Vandtårn (restaurant on top and pool below) – Source: http://www.roskildefugleskydning.dk

21. Hobro Vandtårn Syd (1968): Hodro = 33.78 m/110.8 feet

22-24. Glostrup Vandtårn (1905): Glostrup; Thorsvang Vandtårn (1971): Thorsvang; and Vandtårnet “Toadstool” på Østre Ringvej (1967): Næstved = 33.5 m/109.9 feet

Glostrup Vandtårn – Source: da.wikipedia.org

25-26. Smiling/Saxine Vandtårn (1908): Sakskøbing; and Esbjerg Vandtårn (1897): Esbjerg = 33 m/108.2 feet

Smiling/Saxine Vandtårn – Source: armchairtravelogue.blogspot.com

27-30. Taastrup Vandtårn (1909): Copenhagen; Vandtårnet på Kindebjergvej (1963): Glostrup; Veksebo Vandtårn: Veksebo; and Herlev Vandtårn (1964): Herlev = 32 m/105 feet

31. Rødovre Vandtårn (1927): Rødovre = 31 m/101.7 feet – see colorful images just below

Source: tv2kosmopol.dk Source: tv2kosmopol.dk

32. Søllerød Vandtårn (1969): Søllerød = 30.45 m/99.9 feet

33-42. “The Molar” Vandtårn (1947); Grindsted Vandtårn (1931): Grindsted; Middelfart Vandtårn (1888): Middelfart; Hasle Vandtårn (1970): Hasle; Svaneke Vandtårn (1952): Svaneke; Kindtanden Vandtårn (1949); Nordborg Vandtårn (1911): Nordborg; Tangevej Vandtårn (1907): Tangevej; Vandtårnene på Baunehøj Rode (1973): Baunehøj; and Kerteminde Vandtårn (1939): Kerteminde = 30 m/98.4 feet

Nordborg Vandtårn – Source: da.wikipedia.org

43. Det Gamle Vandtårn (1905): Randers = 29 m/95.1 feet

44-50. Ølgod Vandtårn (1914): Ølgod; Horsens Vandtårn (1983): Horsens; Padborg Vandtårn (1966): Padborg; Fredensborg Vandtårn: Fredensborg; Holstebro Vandtårn (1965): Holstebro; Vandtårnet på Industrivej (1966): Struer; and Vandtårnet på Nørremarken (1976): Vejle = 28 m/91.9 feet

51-54. Brande Vandtårn: Brande; Helsinge Vandtårn (1964): Helsinge; Røde “Lipstick” Vandtårn (1950): Viborg; and Skive Vandtårn (1964): Skive = 27 m/88.6 feet

Source: homedec.dk

55. Helsinge Vandtårn (1963): Helsinge = 26.85 m/88 feet

56. Ballerup Vandtårn (1957): Ballerup = 26.5 m/86.9 feet

57-59. Nordtoft Vandtårn (1958): Aalborg ; Sæby Vandtårn (1931): Sæby; Høng Vandtårn (1940); and Vandtårnet i Niels Juelsgade (1892): Køge = 25 m/82 feet

60. Thisted Vandtårn (1939): Thisted = 24.46 m/80.2 feet

61. Vodskov Vandtårn (1928): Vodskov = 24.3 m/79.7 feet

62-64. Brejning Vandtårn (1901): Brejning; Silkeborg Vandtårn (1902): Silkeborg; and Vandtårnet ved Varde Vestbanegård (1901): Varde = 24 m/78.7 feet

65. Vandtårnet på Floravej (1944): Morsø = 23.1 m/75.8 feet

66. Løgumkloster Vandtårn (1935): Løgumkloster = 23 m/75.5 feet

67. Nyborg Vandtårn (1899): Nyborg = 22.4 m/73.5 feet

68-74. Gram Vandtårn (1922): Gram; Det Gamle Vandtårn (1913): Horsens; Nyby Vandtårn (1924): Nyby; Hørsholm Vandtårn (1960): Hørsholm; Nørre Aaby Vandtårn (1934): Nørre Aaby; Skårup Vandtårn (1939): Skårup; and Gråsten Vandtårn (1930): Gråsten = 22 m/71.2 feet

75. Hobro Vandtårn Nord (1950): Hobro = 21.87 m/71.8 feet

76-78. Det Gamle Vandtårn (1905): Gentofte; Smidstrup Vandtårn: Smidsstrup; and Nørresundby Vandtårn (1934): Nørresundby = 21 m/68.9 feet

79. Ikast-tårnet Vandtårn (1948): Ikast = 20.5 m/67.3 feet

80-86. Granhøj Vandtårn (1961): Aalborg; Kjellerup Vandtårn: Kjellerup; Jebjerg Vandtårn (1923): Jebjerg; Langholt Vandtårn (1919): Loangholt; Slangerup Vandtårn (1935): Slangerup; Svendborg Vandtårn (1925): Svenborg; and Vandtårnet på Kaltoftevej (1955): Fredericia = 20 m/65.6 feet

87. Vinderup Vandtårn (1926): Vindeup = 19.4 m/63.6 feet

88. Nykøbing Sjælland Vandtårn (1914): Nykøbing = 19 m/62.3 feet

89. Gedser Vandtårn (1912): Gedser = 18.5 m/60.7 feet

90-92. Zealand Vandtårn (1911): Zealand; Langkær Vandtårn (1992): Haderslev; and Rudkøbing Vandtårn (1960): Rudkøbing = 18 m/59.1 feet

Langkær Vandtårn – Source: da.wikipedia.org

93-96. Toftlund Vandtårn (1931): Toftlund; Strib Vandtårn (1912): Strib; Vandtårnet i Klostermosen (1947): Helsingør; and Vandtårnet på Terp Skovvej (1926): Aarhus = 17 m/55.8 feet

97-101. Det Hvide Vandtårn (1908): Fredericia; Bramming Vandtårn (1922): Bramming; Aalestrup Vandtårn (1906): Aalestrup; Brede Vandtårn (1908): Brede; and Vandtårnet ved Næstved Station: Næstved = 16 m/52.5 feet

102. Bogense Vandtårn (1910): Bogense = 15.7 m/51.5 feet

Bogense Vandtårn – Source: Facebook.com

103-104. Silkeborg Water Tower (1902): Silkeborg and Birkerød Vandforsynings Vandtårn (1961): Birkerød = 15.5 m/50.9 feet

105-112. Skjern Vandtårn (1898): Skjern; Højer Vandtårn (1934): Højer; Skørping Vandtårn (1898): Skørping; Brønderslev Vandtårn (1955): Brønderslev; Pedersborg Vandtårn (1974): Sorø; Tørring Vandtårn (1914): Tørring ; Vandtårnet på Merkurvej (1960s): Lemvig; and Vandtårnet på Selskovvej (1926): Hillerød = 15 m/49.2 feet

113. Vandtårnet på Frueled (1966): Morsø = 14.4 m/47.2 feet

114-115. Aggersund Vandtårn (1928): Aggersund and Farsø Vandtårn (1935): Farsø = 14 m/45.9 feet

116. Orebjerg Vandtårn: Zealand = 13 m/42.6 feet

117-123. Vandtårnet ved Sorø Station (1922): Soro; Egilsholm Vandtårn (1917): Pedersker; Kagerup Vandtårn (1945): Kagerup; Hasseris Vandtårn (1920): Aalborg; Malling Vandtårn (1922): Malling; Vandtårnet ved Ringgadebroen (1924): Aarhus; and Vossvej Vandtårn (1950s): Aalborg = 12 m/39.4 feet

124. Stilling Vandtårn (1908) Stilling = 11 m/36.1 feet

125-126. Hadsund Vandtårn (1896): Hadsund and Montebello Vandtårn (1915): Helsingør = 10 m/32.8 feet

_______

More information needed:

Aakirkeby Vandtårn
Aalborg Jernbanevandtårn (1902)
Aars Vandtårn
Askov Vandtårn (1914)
Bellahøj Vandtårn
Bernstorff Vandtårn (1887)
Brovst Vandtårn (1903)
Brædstrup Vandtårn (1937)
Dagmarsgade Vandtårn (1887)
Det Gamle Vandtårn i Dragør (1878)
Det Hvide Vandtårn (1952): Haderslev
Dianalund Vandtårn
Dybvad Vandtårn (1919)
Ebberødgaard Vandtårn (1918): Birkerød
Eskilstrup Vandtårn
Faxe Vandtårn (1900)
Fortunen Vandtårn (~1937)
Frederikshavn Vandtårn (1921)
Fuglebjerg Vandtårn (1934)
Gedser Jernbanevandtårn
Gedsted Vandtårn (1929)
Gilbjerghoved Vandtårn (1921): Gilleleje
Gilleleje Vandtårn (1916)
Gøhlmanns Vandtårn (1916): Kolding
Hald Ege Vandtårn (1925)
Hals Vandtårn (1919)
Haslev Vandtårn (1908)
Helsingør Jernbanevandtårn (1890)
Helsingør Vandtårn
Henkelvandtårnet i Valby (1928)
Herlufsholm Vandtårn
Hillerød Jernbanevandtårn (1931)
Hjortekær Vandtårn
Holbæk Vandtårn (1965)
Holsted Vandtårn
Hornbæk Vandtårn
Hovedgård Vandtårn
Humlebæk Vandtårn (1927)
Kalundborg Vandtårn
Karlebo Vandtårn
Kongsted Vandtårn
Kragenæs Vandtårn
Københavns Godsbanevandtårn (1907)
Lillerød Vandtårn (1973)
Lilleø Vandtårn
Lunderskov Vandtårn
Løgstør Vandtårn (1912)
Løkken Vandtårn (1917)
Margrethehøj Vandtårn
Mariager Vandtårn (1939)
Maribo Vandtårn
Mølholm Vandtårn: Vejle
Nakskov Vandtårn (1884)
Nykøbing Falster Gamle Vandtårn
Nørre Alslev Vandtårn (1915)
Nørre Mern Vandtårn (1911): Mern
Nørre Snede Vandtårn (1934)
Orebjerg Vandtårn (1918)
P. Andersens Vandtårn (1877)
Permelille Vandtårn (1927)
Præstø Vandtårn (1911)
Ravnstrup Vandtårn (1934)
Redstedsgade Vandtårn (1926)
Remisen i Tølløse
Ringsted Vandtårn
Risø Vandtårn
Roslev Vandtårn (1912)
Rødding Vandtårn (1926)
Rødvig Station Vandtårn (1879)
Rønne Vandtårn (1937)
Rørvig Vandtårn (1967)
Sjølundstårnet (1938)
Skelde Vandtårn
Skjern Vandtårn (1898)
Solvang Vandtårn (1936)
Store Heddinge Vandtårn
Stubbekøbing Vandtårn (1932-2025) – demolished
Søndre Mern Vandtårn
Tandskov Vandtårn
Tinghøj Vandtårn: Gladsaxe
Tårs Vandtårn
Tyndr’s Hill Vandtårn
Vandtårnene på Baunehøj White (1941-2017) = 25 m – demolished
Vandtårnet i Hornstrup
Vandtårnet på Bjergvej (1918): Lemvig
Vandtårnet på Fredericia Station
Vandtårnet på H.A. Clausens Vej (1899): Gentofte
Vandtårnet på Hadsundvej (1950)
Vandtårnet på Jægersborgvej (1936): Skørping
Vandtårnet på Lærkevej: Halsskov
Vandtårnet på Mosevej (1947): Kolding
Vandtårnet på Nedervej: Hendensted
Vandtårnet på Søndermarken (1968): Vejle
Vandtårnet på Vestvolden: Rødovre
- Vandtårnet ved Esbjerg Station (1952)
- Vandtårnet ved Faaborg Station
- Vandtårnet ved Helsingør Baneterræn
- Vandtårnet ved Langå Station (1912)
- Vandtårnet ved Roskilde Station
- Vandtårnet ved Ryomgård Station
- Vandtårnet ved Rødvig Station (1879)
- Vandtårnet ved stadion: Køge
- Vejgård Vandtårn (1939): Aalborg
- Vemb Vandtårn (1917)
- Vordingborg Vandtårn (1952)
- Vrads Vandtårn (1948)
- Vrå Vandtårn
- Østerild Vandtårn (1907)
- Østervrå Vandtårn

SOURCES:

#adaptiveReuse #cities #Denmark #fun #history #landUse #planning #preservations #tourism #travel #vandtårn #water #waterTowers

#adaptivereuse #cities #denmark #fun #history #landuse

Professor Kerstin Sailer @[email protected] · 2026-01-30 · 17:29 UTC

A rammed earth house that reuses existing material on site and works in harmony with the surrounding landscape

Beautiful architecture and down to earth (pun intended) - brilliantly written up by @edwinheathcote 👏

https://giftarticle.ft.com/giftarticle/actions/redeem/6ffb9fd9-e702-4520-b7c9-f3cf6d9ff0fd

#architecture #sustainability #adaptiveReuse

#architecture #sustainability #adaptivereuse

Mehdi Rahnama @[email protected] · 2026-01-30 · 11:10 UTC

Villa Renovation by Christian Prasser redefines a modernist house through subtraction rather than addition. Clean volumes, precise openings, and a singular circular window balance memory and clarity, turning renovation into an act of architectural restraint.

#ZAHRCHIVE #Architecture #VillaRenovation #Modernism #Vienna #AdaptiveReuse

#zahrchive #architecture #villarenovation #modernism #vienna #adaptivereuse

Mehdi Rahnama @[email protected] · 2026-01-30 · 11:09 UTC

Masseria Carovigna restores a historic stone structure through restraint and material continuity. Vaulted spaces, lime surfaces, and minimal insertions preserve memory while allowing contemporary life to inhabit the architecture quietly.
#ZAHRCHIVE #Architecture #AdaptiveReuse #HistoricArchitecture #StoneArchitecture #ItalianArchitecture #MargaroneArchitects #ArchitecturalRestoration

#zahrchive #architecture #adaptivereuse #historicarchitecture #stonearchitecture #italianarchitecture

Mehdi Rahnama @[email protected] · 2026-01-29 · 10:58 UTC

A disciplined conversion: the new glass hall reads as a clear, contemporary layer that clarifies the castle’s massing. Transparency turns heritage into a civic interior—welcoming, legible, and restrained—where old and new stay distinct yet coherent.#Architecture #AdaptiveReuse #Renovation #Heritage #ConcertHall #gmpArchitects #bbbarchitekten #ContemporaryArchitecture #ArchitecturalDesign

#architecture #adaptivereuse #renovation #heritage #concerthall #gmparchitects

Panethos @[email protected] · 2026-01-06 · 10:00 UTC

A pantone of classic Chicago: Printer’s Row & S. Dearborn

“The excellence of every art must consist in the complete accomplishment of its purpose.” Source: Quote on the Second Franklin Building on Printer’s Row.

Easily this blog author’s favorite part of Chicago’s Loop, the classic skyscrapers of Printer’s Row and South Dearborn Street evoke the city’s robust architectural and manufacturing heritage within a few square blocks. From the exterior iron and steel fire escapes, to the brick and masonry facades, to the literal heartbeat of city’s printing and publishing industry, this illustrative historic district in the South Loop showcases a fascinating aspect of Chicago’s muscle and might.

Mosaic celebrating the “art” of printing at the entrance to the second Franklin Building (1912)

“Arguably the most famous publisher located on Printers Row was Rand McNally, which was founded in 1856 in Chicago and opened its fourth headquarters in 1912 at 536 S. Clark. But perhaps the most-read publications came from Lakeside Press, a division of R.R. Donnelley & Sons. The company printed both the Montgomery Ward and Sears catalogs, as well as the Encyclopedia Britannica, Time and Life magazines, at 731 S. Plymouth.” Source: playeatlas.com

Most of these magnificent buildings, once used for offices and/or production of print materials, have been lovingly restored and adapted into mixed uses or residential structures. Many of the ground floors now contain a delightful mix of small shops, pubs, and dining establishments.

Frankly, today’s modern glass edifices can hardly compete for attention given the distinctive architectural embellishments and adornments set upon these classic Chicago high-rises. They are simply a visual feast for the eyes. One can also easily imagine the continuously rumbling sounds of gigantic printing presses, as the machinery churned out multitudes of documents, magazines, and publications.

If you are in Chicago, skip the typical tourist venues around downtown and take a stroll along South Dearborn Street (and paralleling streets) through Printer’s Row. If you are lucky enough, perhaps the Printer’s Row Lit Fest will be taking place while you are visiting.

Peace and enjoy the images in the post!

Metal, masonry, might, and brick Rowe Building (1892) – the blog author’s personal favorite Beauty in detail Donohue Building (1883) and Annex (1913) Plymouth Building – left (1899) and Manhattan Building – right (1891) A lengthy litany of fire escape stairs. Dearborn Station (1885) – now a shopping and dining venue Old Colony Building (1894) – tallest high-rise in Chicago when completed at ~ 215 feet Fisher Building of Chicago – oldest portion to the left (1896) and addition (1907) to the right Adornment atop the Harold Washington Chicago Public Library Printer’s Row (1925) by Robert Addison – Source: chicagology.com

#adaptiveReuse #architecture #art #Chicago #cities #design #highRises #highrises #history #Illinois #planning #preservation #PrinterSRow #printing #publishing #skylines #tourism #travel

#adaptivereuse #architecture #art #chicago #cities #design

Nam Henderson @[email protected] · 2026-01-03 · 22:42 UTC

"the 310-room hotel will be converted to a 220-unit building, with renderings suggesting a mix of studio and one-bedroom apartments" https://www.denverpost.com/2025/12/31/holiday-inn-denver-housing-hotel-apartments #adaptivereuse *this is right around corner from us and adjacent to at least two major transit routes!

#adaptivereuse

DoomsdaysCW @[email protected] · 2026-01-03 · 20:36 UTC

It's too bad it couldn't be re-used for something -- and leave the trees! @ObsidianUrbex

#SolarPunk #SolarPunkSunday #AdaptiveReuse ?

#solarpunk #solarpunksunday #adaptivereuse

DoomsdaysCW @[email protected] · 2026-01-03 · 20:29 UTC

That is wicked clever, @schokopuddingg ! Tagging for #SolarPunkSunday !

#AdaptiveReuse #DIY

#solarpunksunday #adaptivereuse #diy

Solarbird :flag_cascadia: @[email protected] · 2026-01-02 · 20:31 UTC

RE: https://mastodon.murkworks.net/@moira/115823927559800398

Surprising amount of interest in this little laundry-detergent-cup-to-storage design, so I put both versions on Thingiverse!

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:7258979

The nub version is nice because it's no-support no-cleanup, just print-and-use. The version with spiral threading needs supports and so needs cleanup, but is a tighter/stronger fit.

#3dPrinting #storage #reuse #AdaptiveReuse #tide #caps #lids #container #organisation