The adaptive reuse of architectural heritage in dynamic hubs for innovation and sustainability

The paper describes an integrated design methodology for the adaptive reuse of architectural heritage based on the new models of circular economy and innovative design thinking that stimulates the creativity of the people involved in the working group. The methodological approach involves the use of non-destructive diagnostics, advanced material analysis and context analysis to identify degradation factors and develop reversible and sustainable restoration strategies that preserve historical integrity while improving the technical performance of the building. Furthermore, the use of Life Cycle Thinking allows a holistic assessment of the environmental, economic and social impacts throughout the building's life cycle, supporting selection of sustainable materials and technologies. The design methodology has been applied to the case study of the Carafa Castle in Colobraro, a small town in the Province of Matera, which became famous in the post- war years as a city of bad luck for a series of folk tales about the rite of "fascination", able to provide evil according to popular belief. The castle has had several restoration interventions from 2009 to 2017 that have not solved the pathologies resulting from rising damp. The adaptive reuse project aims to solve the problems caused by biological degradation and the formation of efflorescence and detachment of plaster and to re-functionalize the Carafa Castle into a dynamic hub of innovation and sustainability with creative laboratories and public spaces for events promoting sustainability and collaboration between local communities, academic institutions, public authorities and research centres. Following a modern Bauhaus vision, the dynamic hub fosters co-creation and experimentation in flexible and multifunctional spaces to satisfy community needs and to boost cultural and economic regeneration.