Architectural programming and the adaptation of historic modern era buildings for new uses

Architectural programming in the US has evolved from a methodology developed in the mid-twentieth century and canonized in the 1969 publication (with four subsequent editions), Problem Seeking, An Architectural Programming Primer by William M. Pena and John Focke. This book presents a process to systematically identify and quantify the spatial and functional needs and desires of prospective users as foundational input to the design of a new building. Historically significant buildings, ‘modern’ and otherwise, are a product of an original program and other factors that produced structure, spaces, assemblies and materials that collectively embody social, cultural and/or architectural significance. Seldom are historically-contributing building conditions in sync with programmatic objectives for a future use/reuse. Consequently, the application of a programming methodology for a new building to a set of existing spatial conditions and user desires most often creates potential if not real conflicts. Using the programming methodology for a new building in such situations too frequently results in decisions and actions that alter or destroy historically significant characteristics. Programming a new use for a historic property is/should be a creative exploration of the relationship between the definition of future needs and historic context. This presentation will consider the modern history and application of architectural programming and suggest alternative strategies to align reuse desires with the preservation of historically significant characteristics of a building. The goal is to produce the framework for a preserving and conserving important character defining features and producing a creative coherent connection between the past and the future resulting in a unique design outcome that enriches occupancy and productivity.