The Conversion of Old Industrial Buildings — A Growing Urban Trend

The conversion of old industrial buildings is becoming an increasingly attractive solution in major Romanian cities, amid the decline in available land for new developments. In Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara, former industrial platforms are being transformed into office spaces, cultural centers, or housing units, bringing notable economic and urban benefits.

According to an analysis by IBC Focus, more than 60 conversion projects have been launched over the past three years, 25 of which are located in the capital. The main advantages include reduced pressure on urban infrastructure, the reuse of existing built stock, and the integration of modern energy-efficiency solutions.

However, the process remains complex, involving challenges related to property regimes, soil decontamination, high structural adaptation costs, and the absence of clear guidelines for adaptive architecture. While current legislation offers certain fiscal incentives, there is still no national financial or technical support program for large-scale conversion projects.

(Photo: Freepik)