Challenges and Benefits of Reactivating Rural Heritage in Northern Sweden and Finland from a Sustainability Perspective

Rural and sparsely populated areas across Northern Sweden and Finland face significant challenges related to the preservation of built heritage, demographic change, and the long-term vitality of small settlements. Our Interreg Aurora-funded project RE-ARCHTIVE NORTH seeks to address these challenges by developing innovative tools and methods for the sustainable reuse and reactivation of architectural heritage in northern peripheral regions. This paper presents a comparative analysis of four adaptive reuse initiatives located in Northern Sweden and Finland. Drawing on a qualitative multiple-case study approach, the study applies an SDG-based assessment framework aligned with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). The findings demonstrate that adaptive reuse can play a significant role not only in building preservation and in generating local economic opportunities in rural areas but also in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community resilience, and supporting environmental sustainability. Despite differences in ownership structures, governance models, and functional purposes, all four cases illustrate the potential of heritage buildings to become strategic assets for sustainable rural development. The study highlights the importance of community engagement, collaborative governance, and context-sensitive reuse strategies in achieving long-term sustainability outcomes.