ADAPTIVE REUSE OF HISTORIC HERITAGE BUILDINGS IN GUANGZHOU, CHINA: RETHINKING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH CASE STUDIES

With the rapid advancement of urbanisation, the digital age’s demands on historic heritage buildings have put pressure on and created challenges for Guangzhou (China)’s historic heritage buildings. This study investigates the adaptive reuse of three key Guangzhou heritage sites, Chen’s Lineage Hall, Sai Kwan Mansion, and Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, to understand their contribution to urban sustainable development and future trends. We evaluate their new uses in modern cities and their comprehensive environmental, economic, and social impacts. Findings indicate that while Guangzhou has progressed in heritage protection and reuse, adaptive adjustments are necessary to meet contemporary demands. The current reuse process, though diverse, lacks international perspectives. This paper recommends policy improvements, drawing lessons from successful international cases like the Tate Modern Museum, and addressing digital age requirements to foster sustainable development of historic heritage buildings. Through strategic planning, Guangzhou’s historic heritage buildings can preserve their historical value, enhance their role in urban development and socio-cultural activities, and boost their social status. Protecting and innovating cultural values will further economically benefit, aiding Guangzhou and other cities in revitalising cultural heritage within a global context, promoting harmonious economic, social, and cultural growth.