The Sustainable Development Strategy for the Renewal and Reuse of Industrial Heritage: A Case Study of the A2 Factory Building in Nanjing 1865 Creative Industry Park

Background and Aim: Industrial heritage, as a carrier of history, holds significant research value in cultural, aesthetic, and economic contexts. However, in the context of urban renewal, a large number of industrial heritage sites are facing decline due to their functions no longer meeting contemporary needs. This study investigates the renovation plan of the A2 Factory at Nanjing 1865 Creative Industry Park, exploring design strategies for the preservation and renewal of industrial architectural heritage. Materials and Methods: Research methods: A multi-faceted approach was employed, including literature review, stakeholder interviews, and case studies, to gain insight into the relevant knowledge of industrial heritage renovation. Information regarding needs was collected through on-site investigations, stakeholder interviews, and questionnaires. Ultimately, the final renovation plan was determined through group discussions with architects and scholars. Results: Renovation Methods: The primary renovation methods for the internal space include horizontal segmentation, vertical layering, spatial merging, emphasizing features, and heterogeneous interspersing. Design Concepts and Effects: At the architectural level, it is essential to preserve and utilize industrial heritage as a representative of material culture in industrial civilization, while also promoting and carrying forward its spiritual attributes. By introducing new life connotations that represent emerging industries and modern civilization, a contrast between the old and the new can be achieved. This facilitates the integration of historical buildings with modern spaces, sites, environments, and urban contexts, thus realizing sustainable development in terms of context, architecture, and ecology. Conclusion: In the process of protecting and reusing industrial heritage, it is crucial not only to preserve its original historical architectural features but also to adapt to the development of the times, integrating compatible functional requirements. This research provides valuable references and insights for the sustainable development of architecture and the preservation and reuse of industrial heritage in other regions.