Sustainable Land Use and Redevelopment of Previously Developed Sites
Sakarya University (SAU) supports sustainable campus development by prioritising the efficient use, renovation, and adaptive reuse of existing buildings and previously developed spaces, where feasible.
This approach contributes to the preservation of natural and green areas by making better use of established campus infrastructure and reducing the need for additional land development.
The University's Department of Construction and Technical Affairs – 2025 Activity Presentation documents practical examples of building reuse, conversion, modernisation, and infrastructure improvement during the reporting period.
Adaptive Reuse of Existing Campus Facilities
In 2025, Sakarya University implemented several projects that demonstrate the adaptive reuse of previously developed spaces.
A significant example is the redevelopment of existing workshop facilities into the National Technology Workshop (Milli Teknoloji Atölyesi). Implemented under a cooperation protocol with TÜBİTAK, the project transformed and modernised existing workshop spaces into a 1,140 m² research and innovation facility, completed in December 2025.
Another example is the Rectorate Building Basement Conversion Project, through which previously unused basement space within an existing building was redesigned and brought into functional use for the University's research administration.
The project incorporated offices, meeting facilities, service areas, and archival spaces, enabling the University to accommodate additional administrative functions within its existing building infrastructure.
These projects demonstrate the University's practical approach to repurposing underutilised built spaces rather than relying exclusively on new construction.
Building Rehabilitation and Infrastructure Reuse
Sakarya University's 2025 construction activities also included the rehabilitation and modernisation of existing campus infrastructure.
Documented works included roof waterproofing and insulation improvements, mechanical and electrical system upgrades, heating and cooling system maintenance, drainage improvements, and the renewal of existing building facilities.
The University also completed accessibility improvements and energy-efficient lighting upgrades across existing buildings, supporting their continued use and improved functionality.
These activities strengthen the long-term usability of previously developed campus facilities and contribute to sustainable resource management.
The University's 2025 Completed Activities webpage and 2025 Activity Presentation provide publicly accessible institutional evidence of its building development and improvement activities.
Overall Assessment
Sakarya University demonstrates an established approach to sustainable land use through adaptive reuse, renovation, and redevelopment of previously developed campus spaces.
The conversion of existing workshop facilities, reuse of underutilised space within the Rectorate Building, and rehabilitation of campus infrastructure provide practical evidence of this approach during 2025.
By maximising the usefulness of existing buildings and developed areas, the University supports more efficient land utilisation, the conservation of resources, and the protection of natural campus environments, contributing to SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.
