On determining structural wall layout during the adaptive reuse process of historic masonry buildings

Defining modifications to a building's layout during the adaptive reuse of historic masonry buildings can be challenging since the existing structural grid constrains the transformations to be performed. This paper proposes a novel methodology for exploring modifications to a structural wall layout during the adaptive reuse process of historic buildings. The primary objective is to redefine structural wall arrangements to accommodate new openings and/or cuts in existing structural elements, offering designers flexibility in spatial arrangement modifications. Considering that existing buildings are subjected to damage, an evolutionary approach is used to define which wall segments can be removed from the existing layout, according to a multi-objective function that targets minimizing the presence of damaged elements and maximizing the presence of undamaged elements in the design, in addition to minimizing the building's eccentricity. The problem considers structural constraints based on the compressive capacity and minimum length of shear components. A computational strategy based on Genetic Algorithm is conceptualized as a tool for deriving potential layout solutions that adhere to structural requirements while facilitating the incorporation of new openings. By systematically evolving potential solutions over multiple generations, the algorithm navigates the design space to pinpoint areas within the original shear layout where material can be removed while respecting the given structural constraints. The methodology's validity is demonstrated through a case study situated in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing evidence of the practical application and success of the genetic algorithm approach in real-world scenarios. The findings presented in this paper contribute to the convergence of structural engineering and architectural preservation, offering a systematic and efficient means of determining structural wall layouts for the adaptive reuse of historic masonry buildings. Integrating computational techniques into the adaptive reuse process holds transformative potential, establishing a robust framework for sustainable urban development that honors and enhances the historical fabric of our built environment.