Circular design in sustainable architecture

A key strategy for promoting sustainable development involves adopting a circular economy based on a sustainable life cycle for buildings. This approach seeks to minimize the use of resources and extend the useful life of structures from a design perspective. In addition, there is the challenge of how to maximize the utility of the buildings themselves, in addition to taking into account their possible dismantling in this cycle. This requires designers to consider the future when making design decisions, integrating present needs with the potential consequences of what hasn't yet occurred.

Benefits of applying circular design in architecture

The benefits of applying the circular design are diverse. This innovative perspective transforms the way we live, work and enjoy, emphasizing sustainable practices, circular economies and the use of environmentally friendly materials. Although the circular economy has been around for decades, it has only recently been adopted by designers as a feasible approach to sustainable development. These benefits are:

• Incorporation of ecological materials
• Significant reduction in waste
• More efficient use of energy
• Promotes awareness in the purchase and reuse of objects

Design approaches considering a longer period of time

Change in spatial configuration

When the physical structure of the building ceases to be uniform and static, the variety in the way in which the building is used increases. The building's capacity for continuous use is expanded when it is able to accommodate spaces with different sizes and layouts.

Spaces capable of functional adaptation

When a specific function of a building has a limited duration in time, there are likely to be more periods of inactivity compared to times of use. Why isn't this considered a loss from an economic perspective? The feasibility of a conversion is considered from the initial stages of the design process, so that the building can be used for other purposes even after it has fulfilled its initial construction function.

Mobile architecture

When a building is no longer statically positioned, more possibilities arise both for its environment and for its own use. A building that can be installed in different locations is fully incorporated into a sustainable cycle. Recycling, without the need for disassembly or modification to your properties, maximizes the value of the building.

Fundamental principles of circular architecture

1. Adaptable and disassembly-oriented design: Building components and systems must be designed so that they can be disassembled or replaced without damage, allowing them to be reused or converted into resources when they reach the end of their useful life.
2. Systematic organization of the building's parts and systems and their connections: This approach, known as “Shearing Layers” and developed by Stewart Brand, classifies buildings into different sections, such as the plot, structure, envelope, installations, interior space and furniture. Since the lifespan of materials and systems varies, it is essential to allow this separation to facilitate maintenance and replacement of different parts as needed.
3. Detailed documentation of the technical and chemical characteristics of each material used: An exhaustive process is required to ensure the correct implementation of each material in the work and to plan its subsequent reuse. The materials must not contain toxic substances or contaminants that may be released during their conversion.
4. Energy Efficiency and Responsibility: It must be committed to using construction and disassembly materials and techniques that use renewable energy sources whenever possible, in addition to having reduced consumption. The work must be sustainable during continued use.
5. Incorporation of rental strategies: The implementation of a system for renting materials, systems or products allows tenant companies to be responsible for the installation, repair, replacement and recycling of the elements. This guarantees optimal management of resources by the company and a service that is always in optimal conditions for the customer.

If you want support and advice on obtaining LEED certification with your next building, write to us here.