November 24 - 25, 2025 Private University College of Education of the Diocese of Linz
How do we want to live in the future - and where? In view of vacancies, rising land prices and changing living realities, the use and further development of existing town centers is becoming increasingly important. The expert discussion "Between old and different - conversion culture for a vibrant future", which will take place in Linz on November 24 and 25, 2025, is dedicated to the sensitive further development of historic buildings, the role of townscape and monument protection as well as innovative strategies for sustainable transformation.
Town centers as carriers of identity and culture
Historically grown town centers are much more than just a backdrop - they are identity-forming, culturally significant and often economically relevant. Churches, town houses and market squares tell of the lives of past generations and still shape our social interaction today. Social change and economic pressure do not stop at these structures: more and more historic buildings are standing empty because their original functions no longer meet the needs of the present.
Conversion culture as an opportunity for the future
Increasing vacancies characterize city and townscapes and show how vulnerable these centres are.
show how vulnerable these centers have become. Changes in use, demographic shifts and economic factors make it clear that even long-established structures are coming under pressure. At the same time, the careful conversion and further development of existing buildings holds enormous potential - for affordable housing, sustainable neighborhood development and CO₂ savings as well as for the preservation of collective memories. 2 of 2
Taking joint responsibility for what already exists
This often raises complex questions for owners and planners. As a scientifically sound discipline within building culture, heritage conservation offers proven methods and valuable approaches for sustainable solutions. Experts from architecture, heritage conservation, urban planning and art and cultural studies will discuss how historically valuable spaces can be developed in a contemporary way - as an active contribution to a liveable, resource-saving and identity-creating future.
www.bda.gv.at/zwischen-alt-und-anders-umbaukultur
Registration link: www.termino.gv.at
Organizers: Federal Monuments Office, Province of Upper Austria, Diocese of Linz | Department of Art and Culture, Catholic Private University of Linz, University of Arts Linz, afo architekturforum oberösterreich