"Through a comprehensive examination of a number of international architectural projects, this book offers a compelling new perspective on modern living and contemporary architecture. As populations grow, where and how we live is a major concern. Very often architects address the issue of housing, and converting spaces is normally a more satisfactory solution than building from scratch. This volume examines repurposed sites, reclaimed quarries, former landfills, unused spaces that have been recognized in the last twenty years as potential venues for the development of new social, economic, and environmental assets. A selection of 'recycled' projects from various parts of the world provides a map of the state of the art internationally, describing what has been achieved to date and opening a window onto possible scenarios for the future. In addition to the many images and references, a brief study illustrates the project methodologies in order to provide fundamental guidelines for planning and design."--