Examining Potential for Sustainable Development through Adaptive Reuse and IoT: A Case Study of Kapurthala, India

Historical structure and spatial domains hold paramount significance within the realm of nationalism and serve as essential agents in the construction and protection of a collective sense of national identity. In light of the flourishing ‘heritage industry’, these structures are simultaneously gaining popularity in terms of their increasing economic and political significance. However, many of these spaces find themselves confronted with numerous of challenges, encompassing neglect, vandalism, encroachment, and urbanization pressures; which pose as threat to the aspects of their historical and cultural significance. The reuse of historical structures and areas can be perceived as a multifaceted discussion due to the existence of diverse objectives to be pursued,, the public/private nature, the existence of several values (historical, artistic, cultural, economic, etc.), the presence of different actors (public government representatives, architects, architectural historians, developers and owners). The paper deals with the preservation and restoration of such historical landmarks, assigning new functions - to expand and adjust spaces to modern requirements. A historical project in one such precinct in Kapurthala city is considered as examples herein. Adaptive reuse strategies, literature review and qualitative analysis is presented as a method of how to create sustaining environment in the context of preservation and promoting cultural value of historical buildings, ensuring that these spaces continue to serve as symbols of identity, community cohesion, and sustainable urban development in the 21st century with the help of internet of things (IoT). Furthermore, this study serves as an analytical prototype for future government plans to conserve, redevelop, or rehabilitate many such expressionless spaces in a sustainable manner for the benefit of locals, tourism and city itself.