Designing and Building “Circular” Buildings
Published on 1 January 2020
Publication
A CSTC article explaining how to apply circular economy principles to the design and construction of buildings. It outlines a step-by-step approach (long-term vision, intelligent layout, layered structures, material choices, reversible connections, etc.) and gives practical examples to enhance building adaptability, reuse, and lower overall impact.
This CSTC article proposes a five-step roadmap for designing and constructing circular buildings – structures that can adapt to future needs, support material reuse, and minimize their environmental footprint. Key points include:
Long-term vision and strategy
Ask whether to renovate or build new.
Envision future use scenarios (design for change).
Plan end-of-life from the start (design for deconstruction).
Concrete plan
Balance circular ambitions with technical requirements and costs.
Intelligent layout (flexible spaces, large spans, enough ceiling height).
Layered structure
Separate the load-bearing structure, technical systems, facades, roof, finishes, etc., so they can be replaced or adapted independently.
Material choices
Choose products that can be dismantled and reused (robust, not overly composite).
Avoid toxic or hard-to-recycle components.
Consider reuse or recycled materials, while also accounting for overall environmental impact.
Details and fastenings
Favor reversible assemblies (bolts, screws) over glues or sealants.
Ensure modular dimensions and compatibility between products.
Implementation: The design’s circular strategies must be practically feasible on site. This may require coordination (e.g., to source reused elements) and attention to technical validation of innovative solutions. While there may be an initial cost premium, circular approaches can extend building life, reduce waste, and preserve component value.