Buildings are often designed for a single purpose, with fixed layouts and lifespans, which is increasingly problematic in urban areas. The lack of adaptability for alternative uses leads to demolition, vacancy, and loss. The ABC network is working to replace static, single-purpose structures with buildings that can evolve as quickly as the world around them. The adaptability of a property depends largely on holistic planning. With flexible infrastructure, room usage and interior design can change over time. Movable structures that enable adaptive and efficient use of space are becoming increasingly important. At Hettich, the “Space2Architecture” business unit is deeply involved in the transformation of furniture and spaces and plays an active role in the network.

Technical innovation for adaptive living

With the “RoomSpin” technical platform, Hettich has developed an innovative solution for transforming spaces. Rotatable furnishing elements of various sizes and functions can be planned on this platform. One example of the potential of this innovation is a pilot project for modernising existing buildings, which Hettich has implemented with the housing company VIVAWEST in Dortmund: a rotating bed creates a work, play, or leisure room at the back during the day, depending on the furniture design. This increases available space and quality of living without increasing the floor area.
Daniel Rehage, responsible for innovation management at the Hettich Group, will be a speaker at the first “Adaptable Building Conference” in Rotterdam, presenting the diverse possibilities of dynamic room transformation.