Olga Bolshanina is an associate partner at Herzog & de Meuron (H&dM), an international architectural practice based in Basel, Switzerland. Since joining the company in 2007, she has been responsible for numerous projects, ranging from architectural to urban design. Involved in many adaptive architecture projects, Olga was one of the keynote speakers at LIXIL Day of Architecture and Design (LDAD) this year. The following is an excerpt from Indonesia Design’s conversation with her just before the event.
What is your definition of adaptive architecture?
Adaptive architecture is truly at the core of H&dM’s work. We have an extensive portfolio of projects involving transformation. For me, adaptive architecture means reusing existing buildings or designing a structure that can last and be repurposed for the same function or potentially a broader range of uses. Historically, adaptive architecture has often dealt with cultural or industrial heritage. We work with what’s there, building upon it rather than starting from scratch. No tabula rasa!
After the pandemic, we’re seeing many abandoned office buildings, and we have to determine what to do with them. This is another aspect of adaptive architecture: when we design a building, we must consider how it can be transformed in the future.
Another important approach is proposing new programs for new users. Our project in Miami, 1111 Lincoln Road, is a prime example of adaptive architecture. Initially designed as a parking garage, it has since become a multifunctional space that hosts weddings, yoga classes, large corporate dinners, and even presidential rallies. By creating an open, flexible structure, we went beyond the original brief, designing a space with a wide range of possible uses. It’s about challenging the brief and going beyond expectations.
Why do you think adaptive architecture is a topic that’s important to discuss at LDAD and in general?
Sustainability is on everyone’s mind, and I see it as a very holistic topic. For a long time, sustainability was viewed mainly as a building’s performance—how efficiently it functions mechanically, how well-insulated it is, and so on. But it encompasses so much more in the aspects of ecology, economy and social.
Using what’s already there reflects a certain consciousness. In modern times, whether in Asia or the West, new buildings were often viewed as superior. This mindset led to the tabula rasa period in Western architecture, where older buildings were often demolished in favour of modern designs. But then we realised that this approach erases a place’s identity, charm, and character. Heritage buildings, or any existing structures, act as a kind of antidote to this erasure. When you clear everything and rebuild, it takes a long time for life and history to return. So, whenever possible, preserving fragments or the “soul” of a place is essential.
However, there are also risks with adaptive architecture. We are not only responsible for designing landmark buildings but also for creating urban infrastructure, such as offices, housing and factories. That makes up our cities. The more we focus on adaptive and flexible design, the greater the risk of producing generic architecture. We have to strike a careful balance. Now, more than ever, we must design structures that are simple and focused, but still unique.
You’ve travelled the world for your work. In your opinion, which area or country excels in adaptive architecture?
Different countries excel in different areas, but Belgium has a particularly exciting edge in circular architecture. They have developed an extensive database of elements from demolished buildings that can be reused. You can visit a website to order, for instance, specific window sills, doors, or other components with precise dimensions. It’s a standardized, organised system that encourages the use of salvaged elements in new projects.
You have been working for H&dM for about 17 years. What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from this experience?
Be open-minded, be curious, be innovative, and always ask yourself, “Is this good enough?” Don’t get comfortable with what you’ve achieved or think you know, because there’s always more to learn. Listen more, speak less (though I don’t always succeed at this), and continue learning. Working here has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve never been bored. The projects, clients, and colleagues are consistently interesting. One of the most fascinating aspects of being an architect is that we are always learning.
Each project team combines core members with deep knowledge, whether it’s about museums, stadiums, or another area. And new team members who bring fresh perspectives. This combination of experience and new ideas leads to innovative solutions.