Aart Café: Adaptive Reuse of St. David Fort through Dutch Minimalism and Cultural Integration

This research paper explores the conceptualization and realization of a Dutch-style Adaptive Reuse of cultural Heritage café located in the historic St. David Fort, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. The project exemplifies the adaptive reuse of cultural heritage, blending minimalist Dutch aesthetics with the "pause theme" to offer a contemplative, socially engaging space. Prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and heritage sensitivity, the café design emphasizes spatial fluidity, material honesty, and local craftsmanship. Through site analysis, user-centered design, and cultural integration, the paper presents this café as a model for future adaptive reuse projects in hospitality design.