Design for Disassembly - a way to minimize building waste

Abstract

This graduation is part of a double degree for the master Architecture and the master Construction, Management and Engineering. Research has been conducted into the field of circularity and specifically on design for disassembly as a way to minimize building waste and on improving implementation of circularity by studying the building process and the actors that are involved or should be involved. By relying on case study research including interviews, conclusions were made that circularity is befitted by separability of layers, homogeneity of materials, standardization of dimensions, and fit to different life times. In general, circularity should be aimed at reducing, reusing and recycling building components and materials at both the start and end of a building’s life time. Regarding the improvement of circularity in practice, the following was concluded. Implementation of circularity is benefitted by early on involvement of the following circular-related actors: transformation agent, circularity expert, reclamation expert, dismantler, and legal officer. In order to increase their influence on decision-making these actors should become part of the project team, or at least be taken seriously and offered room to influence decision-making. Especially, if traditional actors lack knowledge and resources for implementing circularity. Moreover, contribution of their resources regarding circularity is facilitated, if these actors are involved early on. Thus, involvement of circular-related actors and traditional actors with circular-related resources early on and subsequent ability to influence and contribute to decision-making, facilitates implementation of circularity in the building process. This is especially of concern nowadays, since circularity has not yet become part of common knowledge of (all) involved actors. Based on findings from these theses a design has been made which concerns a transformation of an existing office building in Buitenveldert, Amsterdam into dwellings. The design demonstrates how circularity principles – such as demountable connections, standardization, prefab, separability of layers, etc. – could provide freedom to generate multiple types of apartments in which residents has the freedom to adjust or personalize the apartment by introducing freedom to change certain layers of the building.