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Adaptive Reuse Architecture in Bengaluru

bySoumitro GhoshBased in Koramangala; Projects across IndiaStarts from₹650 Rs per sq. ft.View full gallery

The most sustainable building is the one that is already built. We transform existing structures into vibrant, modern spaces while honouring their history.

This video documents the complete transformation of an old commercial building in Bengaluru. We stripped it back to its bones and wrapped it in a new, high-performance facade, creating a LEED-certified, sustainable building solution fit for modern, data-driven businesses.

The Cinnamon store in Bengaluru is an example of adaptive reuse on a historic property. We preserved the colonial-era character of the building while converting it into a contemporary retail space, demonstrating how old and new can coexist beautifully.

Engaging with students on the principles of adaptive reuse is crucial. This session explored the balance between the economic value of a property and its socio-cultural potential, a key consideration in my approach to sustainable urban development.

About Adaptive Reuse: Breathing New Life into Old Structures

Adaptive reuse goes beyond simple renovation. We start by auditing the existing building’s bones—structural integrity, light flow, and historical significance—to see how they can serve modern needs. This is not just about preserving a facade; it is about rethinking how spaces can breathe and function in a data-driven world.

Sustainable design legacy since 1995. — Approved by the tribe
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Soumitro Ghosh

Based in Koramangala; Projects across IndiaStarts from ₹650 Rs per sq. ft.

I am Soumitro Ghosh. For me, architecture is less about building new walls and more about listening to the stories already embedded in a structure. My team and I focus on breathing life back into spaces, ensuring they are not just preserved, but truly reimagined for the way we live and work today.

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The completed facade of ICP Brunton Central, an adaptive reuse project in Bengaluru. The new skin of perforated metal screens provides shade and a modern identity while allowing the original structure to remain, significantly reducing the environmental impact of the renovation.
An open-to-sky courtyard and pool area from our conservation of Stuber Hall in Fort Kochi, a 1740s Dutch East India Company residence. We added contemporary elements like this bold red wall while preserving the home's historic character, creating a dialogue between old and new.
A magazine feature on the Kara Hotel in Fort Kochi, a project where we conserved and adapted a 1740s Dutch residence. The images show how we created contemporary suites with modern amenities while retaining the original scale and details of the heritage building.

Adaptive Reuse and Heritage Conservation Architecture

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Mathew and GhoshVisit Studio in Koramangala; Projects across Bengaluru & India
By introducing a large skylight and removing partitions, we turned a cramped attic into an expansive, light-filled learning space. This project at Woodstock School shows how bold interventions can respect a building's history while adapting it for 21st-century needs.11
A closer look at the transformed attic space, where modern lighting and flexible furniture meet the original wooden ceiling structure. This adaptive reuse project focuses on creating comfortable and sustainable environments that bring nature and light indoors.
Another view of the repurposed 1920s attic, now a state-of-the-art workspace. The design prioritizes natural light and an open feel, making a once dingy and uninhabitable space both functional and inspiring for the staff.
This cozy nook within a transformed heritage building at Woodstock School serves as a quiet space for study and collaboration. We restored the original windows and used natural materials to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that connects students with their surroundings.

Adaptive Reuse Architecture and Heritage Retrofitting

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Aishwarya Tipnis ArchitectsTakes projects across India; Visit studio in Greater Kailash, New Delhi
**Monokuro, Ahmedabad:** Our adaptive reuse project, 'Monokuro', was featured in multiple design magazines. We repurposed an industrial building, preserving its shell while inserting a modern workspace centered around a green courtyard.11
**Monokuro, Ahmedabad:** We were thrilled that Monokuro was selected for an open house event by Ahmedabad Commons. This allowed the public to experience firsthand how we transform existing structures into sustainable and human-centric environments.

Adaptive Reuse & Heritage Conservation Architecture

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Compartment S4Studios in Ahmedabad & Bengaluru; Architectural projects across India
The completed facade transformation for 'High-drate' restopub. The new design uses a dynamic mix of materials including brick, perforated metal screens, and integrated greenery to create a bold, contemporary identity.7
The original building facade, with its dated glass and stone cladding, before we began our transformation.
Another view of the building before our intervention, showcasing the plain and generic commercial architecture that we aimed to reinvent.

Architectural Transformations: From Old to Bold

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AD Studio 9Takes projects across Bengaluru; Visit Design Studio in RR Nagar
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The "After" view of the transformed Okhla shed. The original arched bays are now filled with glass, opening the building to the landscape and creating a stunning architectural rhythm.
The new entrance of the repurposed Okhla office. A modern facade with a colorful art installation contrasts with the surrounding trees, signaling the building's creative new identity.
An exterior shot of the finished adaptive reuse project, nestled among lush greenery. The design respects the natural context while giving the old structure a contemporary and functional purpose.

Adaptive Reuse: Transforming Industrial Structures

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Studio IAADTakes projects across India; Studio in DLF Phase 3, Gurugram
For the Earthen Spirit co-living project, I redesigned the terrace into an airy cafeteria and gym, featuring a Mangalore clay tile roof with glass inserts for dynamic light.28
The new double-height staircase in the Earthen Spirit building enhances the sense of space and creates a striking play of volumes within the retrofitted structure.
The redesigned terrace opens up to the outdoors, with large glass doors connecting the interior gym and cafeteria to the open-air seating area.
The Sunyata Hotel, where the architecture is designed to merge with the landscape. Here, brick jali walls and lush planters define the entrance.

Commercial Architecture & Adaptive Reuse in Bengaluru

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Design KacheriVisit Design Studio in Vasanth Nagar; Projects across Bengaluru & Karnataka

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Architectural Conservation & Adaptive ReuseInterior & Product DesignPublic Architecture & Urban Design
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