Adaptive reuse of industrial heritage in crises zones: the soap factories in the Levant

This paper articulates critical considerations for policies related to the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage, particularly in contexts affected by crises, such as conflicts, wars, and natural disasters using the soap factories of the Levant as a case study. It critically investigates the role of adaptive reuse in conserving industrial heritage buildings impacted by crises. The Levant provides a unique context for examining the intersection of cultural heritage and resilience; soap factories, reflective of the region’s olive-oil-rich history and industrial legacy dating back to the 18th century, symbolise the conservation challenges and opportunities posed by ongoing regional conflict. The study systematically analyses existing literature on adaptive reuse and questions conventional paradigms in crisis environments, particularly the suitability of standard transformations such as converting industrial heritage into museums or exhibition spaces. Instead, it aims to broaden the dialogue on adaptive reuse by offering context-sensitive policy recommendations. These strategies balance the imperatives of heritage conservation, sustainable development, and contemporary community demands, contributing to a nuanced understanding of industrial heritage preservation in crisis-affected regions.