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Table 3 Limitations concerning the adaptation of the Boyen Fortress and their interpretation

From: The Boyen Fortress: structural analysis of selecting complementary forms of use for a proposed adaptive reuse project

Limitations of adaptation

Interpretation

Spatial character of the complex

The Boyen Fortress is a complex that, in essence, features two types of buildings: the first type are the buildings of the fortress courtyard, which can be considered detached masonry buildings typical of the nineteenth century. The second type are the fortification structures, which are strictly tied with the defensive character of the Fortress. This causes these structures to be located in highly specific conditions, which place significant constraints on their potential in terms of adaptation and functioning. The very fact of the Fortress being a historical site of great significance makes it possible to take into consideration the adaptation of some of the buildings of the Fortress into exhibition spaces, showcasing exhibitions associated with the military. On the other hand, the open spaces of the Fortress courtyard provide an opportunity to introduce functions related to sports and recreation

Location of the complex

The location of the Boyen Fortress possesses two fundamental characteristics. First, it is situated in relatively close proximity to the centre of the town of Giżycko. Second, it simultaneously constitutes an element that blocks the development of the town in the direction of the passage between the Niegocin and Kisajno lakes, which has caused it to be surrounded by green areas from the south and from the west. This means that while on the one hand it is placed in an area that is highly advantageous in terms of access to the town centre, the complex has a specific cameral character created by a buffer composed of greenery and water bodies. The location of the Fortress is advantageous from the point of view of adapting a portion of its buildings for commercial and hotel-related functions

Historical and heritage value

The Boyen Fortress derives its historical value primarily from its defensive character, which leads to the necessity of protecting its distinct spatial layout and the architecture of its buildings. This means that introducing newly designed buildings should be kept at a minimum, while adaptation should be performed in a manner that will not significantly disrupt its original character. Both of these circumstances support adapting a portion of the Fortress into exhibition spaces

Interference with the structural system

Modifying the structural elements and layouts of the existing buildings of the Fortress is possible under the condition of preserving their spatial character. Adapting the structures that constitute parts of the fortifications to new forms of use will be the most problematic from this point of view, as their very structure and size constitute an essential obstacle to freely altering their functional layouts. This means that certain structures are insufficiently flexible in terms of their adaptation potential, which means that functions whose facilities are relatively non-invasive and that feature fundamental spaces that can be designed in a flexible manner can be placed there. Examples of such forms of use include administrative spaces and certain types of sports and recreation spaces

Conforming to current construction regulations

Due to their variety, both in spatial and structural terms, as well as because of their original functions, the individual structures that comprise the Boyen Fortress possess a clearly defined character in terms of the possibility of adapting them to current construction regulations and technical standards. Some structures, for instance those that are a part of the fortifications, possess insufficient access to sunlight, which makes them very difficult to adapt to forms of use like a hotel or administrative spaces