Research in Urbanism and Architecture II 2021-2022
Accelerating the Circular Building Transition: Necessary Changes in the Design Process How could design processes be changed to accelerate the transition of building design towards a circular economy by 2030? Abstract: A transition towards circular building design would substantially reduce the negative ecological impact of buildings on the environment, decreasing the circularity gap of the Netherlands. While attempts have been made to investigate the design process of circular buildings, it remains an under-researched topic relative to other areas of circular architecture. This research recognizes the design process as a tool that allows the reduction of the circularity gap and investigates how the design processes could be changed to accelerate the transition of building design towards a circular economy by 2030. A series of surveys, case studies, and interviews with architects who have engaged in circular building design has been conducted to identify areas of change in the design process that could speed up this transition. The inclusion of circular building strategies, a more active government role, and enthusiastic participation of project teams are outlined as three categories of change. The results were analyzed through visual content analysis. Dutch architects view increased political interest as necessary to accelerate the transition towards a circular economy, yet simultaneously require more flexibility and freedom from the rigidity of the current design process. This will not change the process itself but rather its structure. This research participates in the movement towards circularity through the visualization of the design process. It also contributes to key players of the building sector, particularly architects, by highlighting areas for change in this process.
Written by: P. Baars, S. Kirsten, D. Klopotek, C. Menegon Nossig, K. Szczepara
Keywords: changes, design process, acceleration, architecture, circular economy
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