Research

Circular Architecture

To transform our environment into a more resilient and inclusive one, we have developed three strategies: Co-Creation, Circular Architecture and Common Space. Here we present a short guideline to Circular Architecture.

Our Circular Architecture strategy is focused on the shift from linear economic patterns (produce-consume-waste) to the greatest possible circular logic. In order to enforce this in ongoing projects we established our circular architecture guideline as a set of rules.

 

Our contribution to the solution:
Limited budget, the inexpensivness of unsustainable materials and constructions, norms and laws didn’t make it easy at the beginning and we have to admit that the topic of sustainability was last in line. But more and more we pay attention to build with pure materials, design demountable constructions and energy saving buildings. And most of all, to hold our customers responsible for it.

Our Circular Architecture Guide serves as a self-imposed standard for our future projects. In all our projects, we try to meet as many of the criteria as possible. Above all, we pay attention from the very beginning.

 

CIRCULAR ARCHITECTURE GUIDELINE

 

 

Step_1: From problem to potential!

 

  • linear buisness model generates high waste production
  • high consumption of (finite) resources and fossil fuels
  • high CO2 release during production
  •  

  • high pressure to turn linear to circular
  • renewable energy as fast growing sector
  • AI waste systems keep materials in loop
  • From linear to circular architecture

     

     

    Step_2: Circular Design Rules
     

  • use reusable and recyclable or renewable and biodegradable materials
  • use detachable connections and pure of sort materials
  • use modular construction and standardised components
  • create waste avoidance through prefabrication
  •  

    Maximum disassemblable as in Cultural Pavilion, recyclability of products as in Plaudereckn

     

     

    Step_3: Circular Infrastructure

     

  • Circular Hubs for recycling and reprocessing
  • storage and sorting of dismantled components
  • point of sale for reused materials
  • digital databases for construction industry
  • exchange, reserve, purchase
  •  

    Example of new public infrastructure network of Circular Hubs

     

     

    Step_4: Material Passport

     

  • design with circular BIM (BIM-compatible)
  • create a material catalogue
  • locate individual components
  • instructions for possible replacement/repair of installed components
  •  

    Circular BIM and material passport

     

     

    Step_5: Deconstruction Manual

     

  • create a manual for deconstruction (disassemble certificate)
  • financial deposit as part of the submission (costs for dismantling)
  • material pass: Information on the return of materials
  • Construction and Deconstruction Manual as in Park macht Platz

     

     

    Step_6: Creating Awareness

     

  • Public Prototyping
  • Exhibition
  •  

    Exhibition at the Vienna Biennale for Change