The Impact of Reusing Old Houses on Community Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Longquan Street in Taipei City

From the Japanese colonial period (1895–1945) to the era of the Nationalist government’s relocation to Taiwan (1949–1987), Taipei City has become a crucial center for Taiwan’s historical, economic, and cultural development. Since the late 1980s, the city has undergone rapid economic growth and urban construction. In recent years, it has embraced policies focused on cultural sustainability, regeneration, and regional revitalization, leading to an urban structure where tradition and modernity intertwine. The strategy of repurposing old houses for community space reuse, appreciated for its cultural context and historical continuity, has become increasingly popular and now represents a distinctive cultural feature of both the city and its communities. Under urban renewal initiatives, utilizing vacant spaces for community building has emerged as a critical issue. This study centers on the bidirectional communication between groups occupying old houses and community residents, examining the role of these buildings in community development and their impact on sustainable development. The research begins by analyzing policies, community demographics, transportation geography, commercial structures, and cultural characteristics to determine the community’s functional needs and service directions. It then evaluates how the operational models of these groups and community networks can form effective symbiotic relationships, enhancing the sustainable development value of old houses. Through case studies with similar cultural backgrounds, this study assesses the implementation process and outcomes of repurposing old houses in various regions, evaluating their potential to boost community economy, social cohesion, and cultural sustainability. The findings suggest that plans aligned with community needs can effectively stimulate economic revitalization and strengthen residents’ sense of cohesion and belonging. For future urban planning policies on old house reuse, this study provides empirical evidence and recommends that policymakers thoroughly consider community characteristics and resident needs, effectively set commercial and profit conditions for occupying groups, encourage innovative services and experiences, and promote goals of multi-win and sustainable community development.