Assessing Heritage-Led Urban Regeneration Through Adaptive Reuse: Evidence from Two Cypriot Khans

Adaptive reuse has emerged as a key strategy for sustainable urban regeneration by preserving cultural heritage while addressing contemporary socio-economic needs. It also contributes to climate-sensitive urban development through the conservation of embodied carbon, reduction in construction waste, retention of climate-responsive urban forms and enhancement of urban resilience. This study investigates the adaptive reuse of two historic khans in Cyprus using a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) framework to assess their transformation into public and commercial facilities. Combining literature review, on-site observations and structured questionnaires with users and occupants of adjacent properties, the research evaluates accessibility, functional compatibility, urban integration, user satisfaction, economic vitality, environmental quality, management effectiveness and socio-cultural performance. The findings show that successful adaptive reuse extends beyond architectural conservation to strengthen urban vitality, social inclusion and economic activity while supporting the long-term sustainability of historic districts. Well-integrated projects improve walkability, reinforce public life and contribute to climate-sensitive development by extending building life cycles, reducing embodied carbon and preserving passive environmental characteristics. The study demonstrates that post-occupancy evaluation offers an effective framework for assessing the long-term functional, socio-economic and environmental performance of adaptive reuse projects, arguing that heritage conservation and climate-sensitive urban planning are complementary strategies for resilient and sustainable cities.