Innovative Reuse as a Design Strategy: Foundations for Innovation Part 1 Dissertation 2026 Louke Holland University of Portsmouth | UK This study explores adaptive reuse as a critical design methodology, positioning it as a design tool for generating innovative architectural solutions that embrace sustainability, cultural continuity, and contextual sensitivity. While conventions of ""pure architecture"" often focuses on creating entirely new forms frequently relying on virgin materials adaptive reuse offers a more thoughtful and responsible alternative: the creative transformation of existing buildings to suit contemporary needs while respecting their historical value.Drawing from historical preservation theories, conservation ethics, and creative interventions, this dissertation challenges the perception that working with existing buildings limits creativity. Instead, it argues that constraints generate greater design originality, resourcefulness, and impact within the UK context. Merging theoretical perspectives, design strategies, case studies, and the development of a design toolkit, the research challenges the thought that old buildings are obstacles. Instead, it asserts they are foundations for innovation. Tutor(s) Rokhshid Ghaziani Dorte Stollberg-Barkley