Abstract
The underlying drive for sustainability in the industry has influenced the concept of designing adaptable buildings as a promising approach towards accommodating future changes. Adaptable buildings have the potential to allow changes in function and enable modification, repurposing, or upgrading, therefore extending their lifespan, reducing waste, and optimizing the utilization of construction materials. In an era where building demands continually evolve; the adaptability and flexibility of buildings serve as pivotal aspects in accommodating dynamic functionalities and emerging needs. This article discusses a selection of six existing frameworks and tools used to assess the adaptability of new buildings. The synthesis of these assessment methods has been based on grouping features of both qualitative and quantitative tools focusing on three main criteria: spatial flexibility, deconstructability, and load-bearing structural flexibility. The review highlighted the gaps and limitations and revealed opportunities for quantifying adaptability for buildings. Results demonstrate the absence of frameworks for early-stage design guidance, and the lack of assessment and validation methods, particularly for the structural adaptability of load-bearing components. Existing frameworks also lack assessment of environmental impact after the implementation of adaptable strategies. Future work should focus on creating a comprehensive assessment method for structural adaptability that embodies deconstructability and integrity of structural elements.