Unique architectural features can often be incorporated into the redesign, adding character while reducing environmental impacts.

In Johnson City, LeChase Construction Services transformed a long vacant shoe factory into Victory Lofts, a 156 apartment residential community. The project blends contemporary design and modern amenities with original features such as expansive factory windows and exposed brick that reflect the building’s industrial heritage. The development earned recognition from several organizations, including the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Victory Lofts is part of a growing movement. According to the American Institute of Architects, retrofitting, renovating, adapting and remodeling existing buildings account for approximately half of all architecture billings in the United States.

The trend continues to accelerate. RentCafe reports that office to residential conversions increased from 31,200 units in 2022 to nearly 70,700 units last year, helping address the nation’s housing shortage.

The healthcare industry has also embraced adaptive reuse. As shopping malls and retail stores have closed, healthcare providers have found value in converting former retail spaces into medical facilities, a trend now commonly known as “medtail.” Former shopping malls offer open floor plans, convenient locations and abundant parking. According to Capital One Shopping, approximately 25,000 malls operated across the country 40 years ago. Today, about 1,200 remain, and that number continues to decline.

LeChase saved nearly a year during construction of the University of Rochester Medicine Saunders Center for Orthopaedics & Physical Performance by redeveloping a former Sears store and adjoining mall space. Today, the 19 acre, 330,000 square foot facility, the largest orthopedic center in the Northeast, provides patients throughout the Rochester region with convenient access to a wide range of services.

Despite the advantages, adaptive reuse projects often present challenges that are not immediately apparent. Construction teams rarely know exactly what they will encounter until walls are opened. That is why careful planning, experience and a different approach than traditional ground up construction are essential.

Water intrusion, rust and deterioration may not be identified during preconstruction inspections. Existing drawings are sometimes incomplete or inaccurate, particularly in buildings that have undergone previous renovations. Construction managers may uncover deteriorated masonry, undersized structural systems or outdated utilities that require significant upgrades. Asbestos, lead paint and other hazardous materials also may be discovered once demolition begins.

The University of Rochester Medicine project illustrates those challenges. The original light gauge steel framing system, which adequately supported the former retail space, could not accommodate the heavy mechanical systems and piping required for a modern healthcare facility. As a result, crews constructed an entirely new structural steel frame to support the equipment.

As with any construction project, collaboration among construction managers, architects, engineers and owners is essential. The more comprehensive the evaluation before work begins, the better positioned the project team will be to anticipate and manage unforeseen conditions. It is equally important to clearly define each party’s responsibilities should unexpected issues arise.

Adaptive reuse projects require patience, creativity and a willingness to solve problems that cannot always be anticipated. When managed effectively, however, they transform obsolete buildings into valuable community assets that can serve future generations.

About the Author: Steve Corletta is Regional Operations Manager with LeChase Construction Services in its New York Metro office in Armonk.

Published: July 16, 2026.