The term "exaptation," originally coined by paleontologists Stephen J. Gould and Elisabeth Vrba,[7] is borrowed from evolutionary biology.
In architectural terms, this can be seen when buildings or their parts, designed for a specific purpose, find new life serving a completely different need.
[9] This concept is especially relevant in contemporary discussions about sustainability, as it promotes the reuse and creative repurposing of existing architectural resources.
Iconic examples include the Tate Modern in London, which transformed from a power station into a modern art gallery, the High Line in New York City, an elevated railway turned into an urban park, Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Plaza de Toros de las Arenas in Barcelona, and Temporary appropriations of public spaces exemplify this adaptability.
[3] This concept encourages architects, urban planners, and designers to think beyond conventional boundaries and explore the multifaceted potential of the built environment.