ItemBook Chapter

Finding a New Life Through Adaptive Reuse for the Old Railway Terminus Complex, Kochi, Kerala

Title
Finding a New Life Through Adaptive Reuse for the Old Railway Terminus Complex, Kochi, Kerala
Creator
Prakash, Vishnu P.; Singh, Priyaleen; Sudhakaran, Pratheek
Description
The research article, titled Finding a New Life through adaptive reuse for the Old Railway Terminus Complex, Kochi, Kerala, examines the historical and cultural importance of the original and still existing railway station complex in Ernakulam. This station, which symbolized the arrival of the initial train to Cochin, was constructed during the zenith of the Kochi kingdom in partnership with the British, making a substantial contribution to the regions progress. Over time, the stations original role steadily diminished, leading to its abandonment and subsequent deterioration. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of adaptive reuse as a strategy for conserving this valuable urban asset. The objective of the research is to reuse these neglected structures with the goal of reintegrating them into the vibrant urban landscape of Kochi, thus ensuring a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the city. The approach involves a thorough analysis of the historical context, current condition, and potential utilization of the precinct. The main findings emphasize that adaptive reuse is an effective method for optimizing space to meet modern requirements while maintaining the historical essence of the built environment. The study highlights the significance of preserving cultural assets by creatively repurposing decommissioned railway historical structures, demonstrating their potential to contribute to sustainable urban development. The research highlights the importance of finding a balance between preserving historical elements and incorporating modern practicality. It provides a framework that can be used by other communities dealing with similar challenges. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2026.
Source
Advances in 21st Century Human Settlements;Volume;Part F1167;pp.147-172
Date
01-01-2026
Publisher
Springer
Subject
Adaptive reuse; Historic preservation; Railway heritage; Urban development
Coverage
Prakash V.P., Christ University, Karnataka, Bengaluru, India; Singh P., School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India; Sudhakaran P., Amrita School of Architecture, Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore, India
Rights
Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library
Relation
ISSN: 21982546;
Format
online
Language
English
Type
Book chapter

Citation

Prakash, Vishnu P.; Singh, Priyaleen; Sudhakaran, Pratheek, “Finding a New Life Through Adaptive Reuse for the Old Railway Terminus Complex, Kochi, Kerala,” CHRIST (Deemed To Be University) Institutional Repository, accessed June 18, 2026, https://archives.christuniversity.in/items/show/24159.

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