Data-driven heritage revitalization: Exploring the paradigm of Lifen adaptive renovation evaluation based on space syntax

Urban historical heritage conservation and adaptive reuse constitute a critical issue in urban renewal. Addressing the lack of effective evaluation tools for functional and spatial renovations of historical buildings, this study proposes a novel method for assessing and guiding adaptive renovations based on Space Syntax. Taking the Lifen (traditional Wuhan alleyway dwellings) complex of Hanrunli in Wuhan as a case study, this study focuses on the technical optimization of Space Syntax application and introduces the operational concept of “Integration Value Assignment” and quantifies the “Renovation Potential Value” of walls through Space Syntax topological analysis. The study demonstrates that the proposed Renovation Potential Value can predict the effectiveness of adaptive renovations, thereby identifying intervention priorities and supporting decision-making in heritage revitalization. This work establishes a new paradigm for quantitative evaluation in historical building renovations, contributes to the methodological advancement of Space Syntax applications, and provides insights for balancing heritage conservation with renewal demands.