V.H. Gruis
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58 records found
1
Purpose
The procurement process is to be transformed to facilitate circular transition in the built environment by integrating the supply and demand sides' actors and resources. Compared with public bodies, Dutch social housing organizations exhibit variations in circular transition motivations and in how they govern procurement decisions. However, relevant empirical knowledge to integrate circular principles into the procurement process in the Dutch social housing sector is lacking. This research aims to investigate the integration of circular principles into the procurement process and the associated challenges in the Dutch social housing sector, and to provide development potentials based on the empirical findings.
Design/methodology/approach
Case studies with seven circular social housing projects in the Netherlands were conducted, including document studies and 18 interviews with housing associations and supply chain actors. An abductive approach with an iterative coding process was used to analyze case study data in Atlas.ti.
Findings
Various approaches are currently being adopted to integrate circular economy principles into the procurement of Dutch Social Housing, such as innovative construction and contracting methods, contracting with a consortium and adopting program-based contracts and performance-based requirements. The integration of circular economy principles is challenged by logistics and information uncertainties, a lack of knowledge on circular economy, separation of organizational structures, inefficiency in stakeholder collaboration and a lack of regulatory support in circular procurement transitions. An integrated information system, tailored circular procurement strategies and pertinent regulations and governance mechanisms are essential for the future development of circular procurement.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the current literature on circular procurement of private organizations in developed economies. It emphasizes that circular procurement should be understood not merely as a technical function but as a systematic approach encompassing technological, organizational, and environmental contexts. It also offers practical recommendations for adopting circular procurement within and beyond the construction industry. ...
The procurement process is to be transformed to facilitate circular transition in the built environment by integrating the supply and demand sides' actors and resources. Compared with public bodies, Dutch social housing organizations exhibit variations in circular transition motivations and in how they govern procurement decisions. However, relevant empirical knowledge to integrate circular principles into the procurement process in the Dutch social housing sector is lacking. This research aims to investigate the integration of circular principles into the procurement process and the associated challenges in the Dutch social housing sector, and to provide development potentials based on the empirical findings.
Design/methodology/approach
Case studies with seven circular social housing projects in the Netherlands were conducted, including document studies and 18 interviews with housing associations and supply chain actors. An abductive approach with an iterative coding process was used to analyze case study data in Atlas.ti.
Findings
Various approaches are currently being adopted to integrate circular economy principles into the procurement of Dutch Social Housing, such as innovative construction and contracting methods, contracting with a consortium and adopting program-based contracts and performance-based requirements. The integration of circular economy principles is challenged by logistics and information uncertainties, a lack of knowledge on circular economy, separation of organizational structures, inefficiency in stakeholder collaboration and a lack of regulatory support in circular procurement transitions. An integrated information system, tailored circular procurement strategies and pertinent regulations and governance mechanisms are essential for the future development of circular procurement.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the current literature on circular procurement of private organizations in developed economies. It emphasizes that circular procurement should be understood not merely as a technical function but as a systematic approach encompassing technological, organizational, and environmental contexts. It also offers practical recommendations for adopting circular procurement within and beyond the construction industry. ...
Purpose
The procurement process is to be transformed to facilitate circular transition in the built environment by integrating the supply and demand sides' actors and resources. Compared with public bodies, Dutch social housing organizations exhibit variations in circular transition motivations and in how they govern procurement decisions. However, relevant empirical knowledge to integrate circular principles into the procurement process in the Dutch social housing sector is lacking. This research aims to investigate the integration of circular principles into the procurement process and the associated challenges in the Dutch social housing sector, and to provide development potentials based on the empirical findings.
Design/methodology/approach
Case studies with seven circular social housing projects in the Netherlands were conducted, including document studies and 18 interviews with housing associations and supply chain actors. An abductive approach with an iterative coding process was used to analyze case study data in Atlas.ti.
Findings
Various approaches are currently being adopted to integrate circular economy principles into the procurement of Dutch Social Housing, such as innovative construction and contracting methods, contracting with a consortium and adopting program-based contracts and performance-based requirements. The integration of circular economy principles is challenged by logistics and information uncertainties, a lack of knowledge on circular economy, separation of organizational structures, inefficiency in stakeholder collaboration and a lack of regulatory support in circular procurement transitions. An integrated information system, tailored circular procurement strategies and pertinent regulations and governance mechanisms are essential for the future development of circular procurement.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the current literature on circular procurement of private organizations in developed economies. It emphasizes that circular procurement should be understood not merely as a technical function but as a systematic approach encompassing technological, organizational, and environmental contexts. It also offers practical recommendations for adopting circular procurement within and beyond the construction industry.
The procurement process is to be transformed to facilitate circular transition in the built environment by integrating the supply and demand sides' actors and resources. Compared with public bodies, Dutch social housing organizations exhibit variations in circular transition motivations and in how they govern procurement decisions. However, relevant empirical knowledge to integrate circular principles into the procurement process in the Dutch social housing sector is lacking. This research aims to investigate the integration of circular principles into the procurement process and the associated challenges in the Dutch social housing sector, and to provide development potentials based on the empirical findings.
Design/methodology/approach
Case studies with seven circular social housing projects in the Netherlands were conducted, including document studies and 18 interviews with housing associations and supply chain actors. An abductive approach with an iterative coding process was used to analyze case study data in Atlas.ti.
Findings
Various approaches are currently being adopted to integrate circular economy principles into the procurement of Dutch Social Housing, such as innovative construction and contracting methods, contracting with a consortium and adopting program-based contracts and performance-based requirements. The integration of circular economy principles is challenged by logistics and information uncertainties, a lack of knowledge on circular economy, separation of organizational structures, inefficiency in stakeholder collaboration and a lack of regulatory support in circular procurement transitions. An integrated information system, tailored circular procurement strategies and pertinent regulations and governance mechanisms are essential for the future development of circular procurement.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the current literature on circular procurement of private organizations in developed economies. It emphasizes that circular procurement should be understood not merely as a technical function but as a systematic approach encompassing technological, organizational, and environmental contexts. It also offers practical recommendations for adopting circular procurement within and beyond the construction industry.
Reusing for tomorrow
Essential prerequisites for circular and adaptable design in building reuse projects
Adaptive reuse of buildings is a sustainable practice implemented worldwide to cope with changing user requirements. It is a resource-efficient building intervention that can promote circularity in the built environment by reusing building assets and extending their longevity. As a type of building alteration, adaptive reuse needs to facilitate future changes by adopting principles of building adaptability: the ability to modify or adjust the configuration and composition of buildings to meet changing needs over time. This involves flexible design, modular construction, or innovative use of materials. While the benefits of future-proof circular adaptive reuse are acknowledged, its implementation remains challenging due to a lack of knowledge and other practical obstacles. The combination of circularity and adaptability in adaptive reuse projects requires a collaborative development process that aligns diverse demands. Drawing from the authors’ theoretical and empirical studies, this chapter outlines the essential design prerequisites – key foundational conditions – for circular and adaptable building reuse as an emerging practice in the built environment. This chapter stems from synthesizing these insights into actionable prerequisites that support circular and adaptable reuse design. These prerequisites comprise asset inventory; iterative and interdisciplinary co-design, knowledge acquisition and dissemination; and adoption of an approach to requirements alignment.
...
Adaptive reuse of buildings is a sustainable practice implemented worldwide to cope with changing user requirements. It is a resource-efficient building intervention that can promote circularity in the built environment by reusing building assets and extending their longevity. As a type of building alteration, adaptive reuse needs to facilitate future changes by adopting principles of building adaptability: the ability to modify or adjust the configuration and composition of buildings to meet changing needs over time. This involves flexible design, modular construction, or innovative use of materials. While the benefits of future-proof circular adaptive reuse are acknowledged, its implementation remains challenging due to a lack of knowledge and other practical obstacles. The combination of circularity and adaptability in adaptive reuse projects requires a collaborative development process that aligns diverse demands. Drawing from the authors’ theoretical and empirical studies, this chapter outlines the essential design prerequisites – key foundational conditions – for circular and adaptable building reuse as an emerging practice in the built environment. This chapter stems from synthesizing these insights into actionable prerequisites that support circular and adaptable reuse design. These prerequisites comprise asset inventory; iterative and interdisciplinary co-design, knowledge acquisition and dissemination; and adoption of an approach to requirements alignment.
The Delft scales to aspects circular built environment model
The result of two years of interdisciplinary discussions
Review
(2026)
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A. Wandl, O. Ioannou, T. Egger, M. Dabrowski, P. Medici, T. Klein, V. Gruis, D. Peck, A. Jenkins, B. Geldermans, K. van den Berghe, F. Bucci-Ancapi, T. Tsui, M. van Uden
This paper presents the findings of an interdisciplinary academic exchange exploring the transition towards a circular built environment (CBE), developed over two years of collaborative work at Delft University of Technology’s Circular Built Environment Hub. A key outcome of this work is developing a comprehensive definition of the CBE and the related Scales to Aspects model, which connects the multi-scalar and cross-disciplinary nature of circularity, ranging from materials and components to buildings, neighbourhoods, cities, and regions. It highlights critical tensions, such as the lack of integration between circular strategies and other global challenges.
...
This paper presents the findings of an interdisciplinary academic exchange exploring the transition towards a circular built environment (CBE), developed over two years of collaborative work at Delft University of Technology’s Circular Built Environment Hub. A key outcome of this work is developing a comprehensive definition of the CBE and the related Scales to Aspects model, which connects the multi-scalar and cross-disciplinary nature of circularity, ranging from materials and components to buildings, neighbourhoods, cities, and regions. It highlights critical tensions, such as the lack of integration between circular strategies and other global challenges.
Towards desirable futures for the circular adaptive reuse of buildings
A participatory approach
Adaptive reuse of buildings offers a sustainable strategy for reducing global CO2 emissions by repurposing existing structures, conserving resources, reducing the need to extract new materials, and minimizing waste. However, the decision-making process in adaptive reuse projects is often complex, involving conflicting criteria and diverse stakeholders. Current approaches tend to polarize alternatives, focusing either on broad functional use or specific design options, which can limit decision effectiveness and quality. This study addresses these challenges by developing a participatory mixed-methods approach that integrates Cross-Impact Balance (CIB) analysis with creative scenario-building techniques, including generative AI and participatory workshops. This approach balances the extremes of current decision-making processes, offering a more comprehensive overview of desirable futures for decision-makers. The methodology was applied to create 15 “big picture” circular adaptive reuse scenarios, each incorporating circular building adaptability (CBA) strategies, and enriched with AI generated narratives and visualizations. These scenarios provide stakeholders with a nuanced understanding of potential future pathways, enhancing decision-making processes. This mixed-method approach demonstrates the potential of participatory CIB scenario development in advancing circularity, offering a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of adaptive reuse decision-making.
...
Adaptive reuse of buildings offers a sustainable strategy for reducing global CO2 emissions by repurposing existing structures, conserving resources, reducing the need to extract new materials, and minimizing waste. However, the decision-making process in adaptive reuse projects is often complex, involving conflicting criteria and diverse stakeholders. Current approaches tend to polarize alternatives, focusing either on broad functional use or specific design options, which can limit decision effectiveness and quality. This study addresses these challenges by developing a participatory mixed-methods approach that integrates Cross-Impact Balance (CIB) analysis with creative scenario-building techniques, including generative AI and participatory workshops. This approach balances the extremes of current decision-making processes, offering a more comprehensive overview of desirable futures for decision-makers. The methodology was applied to create 15 “big picture” circular adaptive reuse scenarios, each incorporating circular building adaptability (CBA) strategies, and enriched with AI generated narratives and visualizations. These scenarios provide stakeholders with a nuanced understanding of potential future pathways, enhancing decision-making processes. This mixed-method approach demonstrates the potential of participatory CIB scenario development in advancing circularity, offering a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of adaptive reuse decision-making.
Making Circular Strategies Work
Advancing an Adaptable Building Framework through Action Design Research
Circular and adaptable strategies in building reuse are key to achieving a resource-efficient and future-proof built environment. Despite significant advances in circular building research, this field is affected by a significant theory–practice gap. To bridge this gap, we applied an action design research methodology, implementing a circular building design framework over a five-month period in the context of a Dutch monumental office building reuse. The objective of these interventions was to observe practitioners engaging with the framework and identify the barriers they encountered when considering and applying circular building strategies. We observed that the framework primarily functioned as a descriptive tool. Enhancing its usability and effectiveness required several refinements, including simplifying its self-description, clarifying its strategies through practical solutions and connections to related models, providing robust assessment tools, and improving its accessibility. Through iterative action research conducted during the observation and intervention period, we addressed these issues and advanced the framework. Our design-oriented approach led to the development of key design artifacts: a prescriptive guiding, assessment, and reporting tool; a stepwise approach to streamline application; and a hands-on worksheet for practitioners. These artifacts were integrated into a user-friendly platform, transforming the framework into a practical tool for real-world implementation. For theory, this study incorporates a circular perspective into a usable framework and demonstrates how an action design research approach can co-develop and improve frameworks and their usability and relevance. For practice, the produced artifacts represent boundary objects tailored to practitioners’ needs; thereby paving the way for future circular adaptive reuse. Clinical trial number: not applicable.
...
Circular and adaptable strategies in building reuse are key to achieving a resource-efficient and future-proof built environment. Despite significant advances in circular building research, this field is affected by a significant theory–practice gap. To bridge this gap, we applied an action design research methodology, implementing a circular building design framework over a five-month period in the context of a Dutch monumental office building reuse. The objective of these interventions was to observe practitioners engaging with the framework and identify the barriers they encountered when considering and applying circular building strategies. We observed that the framework primarily functioned as a descriptive tool. Enhancing its usability and effectiveness required several refinements, including simplifying its self-description, clarifying its strategies through practical solutions and connections to related models, providing robust assessment tools, and improving its accessibility. Through iterative action research conducted during the observation and intervention period, we addressed these issues and advanced the framework. Our design-oriented approach led to the development of key design artifacts: a prescriptive guiding, assessment, and reporting tool; a stepwise approach to streamline application; and a hands-on worksheet for practitioners. These artifacts were integrated into a user-friendly platform, transforming the framework into a practical tool for real-world implementation. For theory, this study incorporates a circular perspective into a usable framework and demonstrates how an action design research approach can co-develop and improve frameworks and their usability and relevance. For practice, the produced artifacts represent boundary objects tailored to practitioners’ needs; thereby paving the way for future circular adaptive reuse. Clinical trial number: not applicable.
From theory to practice
Evaluating success factors of adaptive reuse through a case study
Purpose: This study assesses the success of a real project in practice, using identified success factors from recent systematic literature. It investigates how theoretical insights translate into real-world outcomes by answering the question: “How do success factors identified in existing literature contribute to the success of a real-world adaptive reuse project?”. Design/methodology/approach: This research utilizes a case study methodology to explore the adaptive reuse phenomenon through the lens of the Fenix I in the Netherlands. Three comprehensive semi-structured interviews with key decision-makers provide insights into experiences, challenges, and ultimately the evaluation of success factors in practice. Data analysis involves deductive coding, systematically organizing success factors into ten categories derived from the literature, to implement the analysis and align with the research objectives. Findings: The results demonstrate the application of a majority of success factors identified in literature within the case study. This study reveals differences in the levels of significance among these factors, their categorization and their existence, particularly between listed and non-listed heritage buildings. Moreover, it shows the remarkable impact of public-private collaboration from the early stages of decision-making through project implementation. The study confirms that a successful real-world project addresses a significant proportion of the success factors identified in the literature. Originality/value: This research facilitates the decision-making process for stakeholders and practitioners in adaptive reuse projects, aiming to foster the development of more successful initiatives in this field.
...
Purpose: This study assesses the success of a real project in practice, using identified success factors from recent systematic literature. It investigates how theoretical insights translate into real-world outcomes by answering the question: “How do success factors identified in existing literature contribute to the success of a real-world adaptive reuse project?”. Design/methodology/approach: This research utilizes a case study methodology to explore the adaptive reuse phenomenon through the lens of the Fenix I in the Netherlands. Three comprehensive semi-structured interviews with key decision-makers provide insights into experiences, challenges, and ultimately the evaluation of success factors in practice. Data analysis involves deductive coding, systematically organizing success factors into ten categories derived from the literature, to implement the analysis and align with the research objectives. Findings: The results demonstrate the application of a majority of success factors identified in literature within the case study. This study reveals differences in the levels of significance among these factors, their categorization and their existence, particularly between listed and non-listed heritage buildings. Moreover, it shows the remarkable impact of public-private collaboration from the early stages of decision-making through project implementation. The study confirms that a successful real-world project addresses a significant proportion of the success factors identified in the literature. Originality/value: This research facilitates the decision-making process for stakeholders and practitioners in adaptive reuse projects, aiming to foster the development of more successful initiatives in this field.
Background and aim. Adaptive reuse enhances circularity by repurposing buildings, reducing carbon emissions, and preserving heritage. However, decision-making is complex due to stakeholder conflicts, regulations, and uncertainties. This study introduces an integrated framework combining Cross-Impact Balance (CIB) analysis, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Fuzzy-TOPSIS to support structured, participatory decision-making.
Methods and Data. A mixed-method approach integrates CIB for scenario development, AHP for stakeholder-driven prioritization, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS for ranking reuse scenarios. A hypothetical case study demonstrates the framework’s applicability.
Findings. The integration of CIB, AHP, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS provides a structured decision-making approach that enhances scenario coherence, aligns decisions with stakeholder priorities, and improves scenario ranking robustness. The framework enables systematic exploration of adaptive reuse scenarios, ensuring alignment with stakeholder objectives.
Theoretical / Practical / Societal implications. Theoretically, this study advances scenario-based decision-making by integrating scenario development and decision-making approaches, addressing gaps in adaptive reuse decision frameworks. Practically, it provides policymakers, urban planners, and developers with a structured tool to navigate complex decision-making in adaptive reuse projects. Societally, it supports sustainable and inclusive urban development by fostering consistent, long-term strategies that balance environmental, economic, and social considerations. ...
Methods and Data. A mixed-method approach integrates CIB for scenario development, AHP for stakeholder-driven prioritization, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS for ranking reuse scenarios. A hypothetical case study demonstrates the framework’s applicability.
Findings. The integration of CIB, AHP, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS provides a structured decision-making approach that enhances scenario coherence, aligns decisions with stakeholder priorities, and improves scenario ranking robustness. The framework enables systematic exploration of adaptive reuse scenarios, ensuring alignment with stakeholder objectives.
Theoretical / Practical / Societal implications. Theoretically, this study advances scenario-based decision-making by integrating scenario development and decision-making approaches, addressing gaps in adaptive reuse decision frameworks. Practically, it provides policymakers, urban planners, and developers with a structured tool to navigate complex decision-making in adaptive reuse projects. Societally, it supports sustainable and inclusive urban development by fostering consistent, long-term strategies that balance environmental, economic, and social considerations. ...
Background and aim. Adaptive reuse enhances circularity by repurposing buildings, reducing carbon emissions, and preserving heritage. However, decision-making is complex due to stakeholder conflicts, regulations, and uncertainties. This study introduces an integrated framework combining Cross-Impact Balance (CIB) analysis, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Fuzzy-TOPSIS to support structured, participatory decision-making.
Methods and Data. A mixed-method approach integrates CIB for scenario development, AHP for stakeholder-driven prioritization, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS for ranking reuse scenarios. A hypothetical case study demonstrates the framework’s applicability.
Findings. The integration of CIB, AHP, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS provides a structured decision-making approach that enhances scenario coherence, aligns decisions with stakeholder priorities, and improves scenario ranking robustness. The framework enables systematic exploration of adaptive reuse scenarios, ensuring alignment with stakeholder objectives.
Theoretical / Practical / Societal implications. Theoretically, this study advances scenario-based decision-making by integrating scenario development and decision-making approaches, addressing gaps in adaptive reuse decision frameworks. Practically, it provides policymakers, urban planners, and developers with a structured tool to navigate complex decision-making in adaptive reuse projects. Societally, it supports sustainable and inclusive urban development by fostering consistent, long-term strategies that balance environmental, economic, and social considerations.
Methods and Data. A mixed-method approach integrates CIB for scenario development, AHP for stakeholder-driven prioritization, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS for ranking reuse scenarios. A hypothetical case study demonstrates the framework’s applicability.
Findings. The integration of CIB, AHP, and Fuzzy-TOPSIS provides a structured decision-making approach that enhances scenario coherence, aligns decisions with stakeholder priorities, and improves scenario ranking robustness. The framework enables systematic exploration of adaptive reuse scenarios, ensuring alignment with stakeholder objectives.
Theoretical / Practical / Societal implications. Theoretically, this study advances scenario-based decision-making by integrating scenario development and decision-making approaches, addressing gaps in adaptive reuse decision frameworks. Practically, it provides policymakers, urban planners, and developers with a structured tool to navigate complex decision-making in adaptive reuse projects. Societally, it supports sustainable and inclusive urban development by fostering consistent, long-term strategies that balance environmental, economic, and social considerations.
Business Plan Circular Building Strategies
CHARM D.LT 4.1
In this deliverable, we will briefly introduce circular building strategies and explain business models associated with CHARM strategies. An overall mapping will be presented on the sustainable business canvas based on the outcomes of related work packages.
...
In this deliverable, we will briefly introduce circular building strategies and explain business models associated with CHARM strategies. An overall mapping will be presented on the sustainable business canvas based on the outcomes of related work packages.
While circular business models are receiving increasing academic attention, the business models of real circular building companies remain underexamined. This paper builds upon existing conceptual proposals and general overviews of reuse actors to investigate how these organizations capture and create value within the constraints of the marketplace. Using data from case studies of 25 organizations involved in the reuse of construction waste streams, the business model of each case is described and compared using Osterwalder and Pigneur’s Business Model Canvas. The authors propose six categories of circular construction business model types: upcyclers, component-specific suppliers, material resellers, reuse platforms, reuse consulting offices and deconstruction companies. The key findings include the studied organizations’ consolidation of multiple waste and new product streams, the strategic minimization of hard assets, the cultivation of diverse revenue streams and an emphasis on private market solutions.
...
While circular business models are receiving increasing academic attention, the business models of real circular building companies remain underexamined. This paper builds upon existing conceptual proposals and general overviews of reuse actors to investigate how these organizations capture and create value within the constraints of the marketplace. Using data from case studies of 25 organizations involved in the reuse of construction waste streams, the business model of each case is described and compared using Osterwalder and Pigneur’s Business Model Canvas. The authors propose six categories of circular construction business model types: upcyclers, component-specific suppliers, material resellers, reuse platforms, reuse consulting offices and deconstruction companies. The key findings include the studied organizations’ consolidation of multiple waste and new product streams, the strategic minimization of hard assets, the cultivation of diverse revenue streams and an emphasis on private market solutions.
Business Plan Material Exchange Platform
CHARM D.LT 4.2
In this deliverable, we briefly introduce material exchange platforms (MEPs) and explain business models associated with CHARM MEPs. An overall mapping will be presented on the sustainable business canvas based on the outcomes of related work packages.
...
In this deliverable, we briefly introduce material exchange platforms (MEPs) and explain business models associated with CHARM MEPs. An overall mapping will be presented on the sustainable business canvas based on the outcomes of related work packages.
Accelerating circularity systemically
Three directions for impactful research
Over the past two decades, research promoting a sustainable built environment has pioneered new horizons to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Yet, these efforts are suffering from a significant theory-practice divide. This article offers three interconnected research themes to bridge this gap: 1. Distinguishing circularity practices across spatial and time scales; 2. Redesigning the value of design and its process; and 3. Learning from sister transitions for acceleration.
...
Over the past two decades, research promoting a sustainable built environment has pioneered new horizons to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. Yet, these efforts are suffering from a significant theory-practice divide. This article offers three interconnected research themes to bridge this gap: 1. Distinguishing circularity practices across spatial and time scales; 2. Redesigning the value of design and its process; and 3. Learning from sister transitions for acceleration.
Circular Asset Management Implementation Guideline
CHARM D.LT 4.3
In this deliverable we give guidance for housing associations for circular asset management. The guidance is based upon the circular asset management practises of the CHARM partners, demonstrating circularity in renovation and new construction projects, and the development of material exchange platforms (MEPs). Also, general insights in circular asset management practises have been used. [...]
...
In this deliverable we give guidance for housing associations for circular asset management. The guidance is based upon the circular asset management practises of the CHARM partners, demonstrating circularity in renovation and new construction projects, and the development of material exchange platforms (MEPs). Also, general insights in circular asset management practises have been used. [...]
Book chapter
(2024)
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Erwin Mlecnik, Queena Qian, Monika Roeling, Ad Straub, Aksel Ersoy, Hilde Remoy, Vincent Gruis, Fred Hobma, Remon Rooij, Herman Vande Putte, Gerard van Bortel
It is recommended to integrate specific management competencies in academic education to support the transition towards environmentally sustainable practices, particularly in the construction and real estate sector. This paper explores how architectural management education can integrate environmental sustainability within its current university programmes. In recent years TU Delft explored and experimented with various education initiatives to bring forward environmental sustainability knowledge and to connect with policy, societal and industry practices. This paper describes what we learned from both bottom-up and top-down initiatives implementing environmental sustainability in construction and real estate management education. Bottom-up educational initiatives show that knowledge about transition policies, stakeholder experiences, business models and management practices from a European perspective can help students across the globe to apply knowledge into their local context, reflecting on the overarching management principals across stakeholders, institutions, academic disciplines and cultures. Top-down initiatives show that the university has a vision on integrating sustainability in its curriculum, but that integrating environmental sustainability in construction and real estate management education is still challenging. Adapting the academic curriculum to integrate building and portfolio responses to environmental challenges might be a way forward and the experiences from numerous elective courses and educational initiatives can be a basis to identify the development of a future standard curriculum.
...
It is recommended to integrate specific management competencies in academic education to support the transition towards environmentally sustainable practices, particularly in the construction and real estate sector. This paper explores how architectural management education can integrate environmental sustainability within its current university programmes. In recent years TU Delft explored and experimented with various education initiatives to bring forward environmental sustainability knowledge and to connect with policy, societal and industry practices. This paper describes what we learned from both bottom-up and top-down initiatives implementing environmental sustainability in construction and real estate management education. Bottom-up educational initiatives show that knowledge about transition policies, stakeholder experiences, business models and management practices from a European perspective can help students across the globe to apply knowledge into their local context, reflecting on the overarching management principals across stakeholders, institutions, academic disciplines and cultures. Top-down initiatives show that the university has a vision on integrating sustainability in its curriculum, but that integrating environmental sustainability in construction and real estate management education is still challenging. Adapting the academic curriculum to integrate building and portfolio responses to environmental challenges might be a way forward and the experiences from numerous elective courses and educational initiatives can be a basis to identify the development of a future standard curriculum.
In recent decades, various programs have been developed as part of Chile’s housing policies to respond to the housing deficit. Most policies have so far focused on addressing the quantitative, qualitative, and urban deficits, neglecting the social dimension of housing. At the same time, the concept of collaborative housing has been referred to as a possible alternative to respond to these social challenges by fostering social cohesion, collaboration, and mutual aid. This article explores how collaborative housing can tackle the social deficit of housing. Here, we conceptualise this deficit as ‘the lack of non-physical or intangible social characteristics given among residents of a project, such as trust, social cohesion, and a sense of community, necessary for housing to be considered adequate.’ We examined the relation between these two concepts by developing a theoretical and empirical study. The first consisted of a theoretical framework and a review of literature on collaborative housing’s response to the social deficit of housing. Second, we interviewed stakeholders from two study cases. We found that residents in both collaborative housing cases perceive an improvement in their social interactions, sociability, trust, and sense of community in their current homes compared to previous homes. Therefore, we conclude that collaborative housing presents opportunities to tackle the social deficit of housing.
...
In recent decades, various programs have been developed as part of Chile’s housing policies to respond to the housing deficit. Most policies have so far focused on addressing the quantitative, qualitative, and urban deficits, neglecting the social dimension of housing. At the same time, the concept of collaborative housing has been referred to as a possible alternative to respond to these social challenges by fostering social cohesion, collaboration, and mutual aid. This article explores how collaborative housing can tackle the social deficit of housing. Here, we conceptualise this deficit as ‘the lack of non-physical or intangible social characteristics given among residents of a project, such as trust, social cohesion, and a sense of community, necessary for housing to be considered adequate.’ We examined the relation between these two concepts by developing a theoretical and empirical study. The first consisted of a theoretical framework and a review of literature on collaborative housing’s response to the social deficit of housing. Second, we interviewed stakeholders from two study cases. We found that residents in both collaborative housing cases perceive an improvement in their social interactions, sociability, trust, and sense of community in their current homes compared to previous homes. Therefore, we conclude that collaborative housing presents opportunities to tackle the social deficit of housing.
Towards promoting circular building adaptability in adaptive reuse projects
A co-developed framework
Purpose
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors.
Design/methodology/approach
A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework.
Findings
The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies.
Practical implications
This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation.
Originality/value
The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research. ...
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors.
Design/methodology/approach
A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework.
Findings
The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies.
Practical implications
This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation.
Originality/value
The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research. ...
Purpose
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors.
Design/methodology/approach
A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework.
Findings
The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies.
Practical implications
This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation.
Originality/value
The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research.
Circular building adaptability (CBA) in adaptive reuse – building transformation – projects can facilitate a resource-efficient and futureproof redevelopment of the built environment. However, there has been a lack of practical tools that guide practitioners on how to foster CBA in adaptive reuse. Therefore, this study aims to collaboratively develop a guiding framework for CBA in adaptive reuse (CBA-AR) projects in general. The CBA-AR framework is a descriptive and content-oriented synthesis mapping a series of strategies to the CBA determinants alongside their enablers and inhibitors.
Design/methodology/approach
A participatory research-oriented approach was followed. First, an archival research was conducted to develop the CBA-AR framework based on literature review and case studies. Second, two co-creation workshops, triangulated with structured interviews, were conducted to validate and expand the framework.
Findings
The first version of the CBA-AR framework comprises 30 CBA strategies. It also brings seven enablers and six inhibitors together with the 30 CBA strategies. The outcomes of the participatory approach contributed to refining and expanding the framework. The final of the CBA-AR framework version comprises CBA 33 strategies. This version brings 10 enablers and 7 inhibitors together with the 33 strategies.
Practical implications
This framework can be used as a guiding and reporting instrument by designers and property developers while transforming vacant or obsolete properties in the Netherlands. Policy makers can refer to this framework and amend adaptive reuse legislation.
Originality/value
The CBA-AR framework can introduce a transformative change in theory and practice, as it is based on theoretical, empirical and participatory research.
Circulaire en aanpasbare gebouwtransformatie
Een overzicht van strategieën
Bevolkingsgroei, marktdynamiek, vastgoedleegstand en veroudering van gebouwen zijn enkele aanleidingen voor transformatie van gebouwen. De laatste decennia zijn er al veel transformatieprojecten uitgevoerd, mede als oplossing voor leegstand (zie 11. Transformatiemeter kantoren). Sinds kort wordt gebouwtransformatie ook als een veelbelovend onderdeel van de transitie naar een circulaire economie gezien, omdat er per definitie sprake is van hergebruik van materialen en producten en dit de noodzaak om nieuwe materialen in de kringloop te brengen vermindert. Om een optimale bijdrage te leveren aan de circulaire economie, zullen de gebouwtransformaties zelf evenwel ook circulair moeten worden uitgevoerd. Dit hoofdstuk presenteert daarom een conceptueel model voor praktische en toepasbare strategieën voor circulaire en aanpasbare gebouwtransformatie. Dit model is een handig en informatief hulpmiddel voor beleggers, ontwerpers, ontwikkelaars en bouwers.
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Bevolkingsgroei, marktdynamiek, vastgoedleegstand en veroudering van gebouwen zijn enkele aanleidingen voor transformatie van gebouwen. De laatste decennia zijn er al veel transformatieprojecten uitgevoerd, mede als oplossing voor leegstand (zie 11. Transformatiemeter kantoren). Sinds kort wordt gebouwtransformatie ook als een veelbelovend onderdeel van de transitie naar een circulaire economie gezien, omdat er per definitie sprake is van hergebruik van materialen en producten en dit de noodzaak om nieuwe materialen in de kringloop te brengen vermindert. Om een optimale bijdrage te leveren aan de circulaire economie, zullen de gebouwtransformaties zelf evenwel ook circulair moeten worden uitgevoerd. Dit hoofdstuk presenteert daarom een conceptueel model voor praktische en toepasbare strategieën voor circulaire en aanpasbare gebouwtransformatie. Dit model is een handig en informatief hulpmiddel voor beleggers, ontwerpers, ontwikkelaars en bouwers.
What matters when?
An integrative literature review on decision criteria in different stages of the adaptive reuse process
Despite the significant growth of the literature on adaptive reuse, little is known about the specific criteria unfolding throughout the different phases of the adaptive reuse decision-making process. To address this gap this paper aims to provide a comprehensive, state-of-the-art overview of the decision criteria for adaptive reuse throughout the adaptive reuse process. Through an integrative literature review with a systematic search strategy, three phases are substantiated: pre-project phase, preparation phase, and post-completion phase. This paper finds that despite the similarities between the different phases, with a predominant repetition of economic and architectural categories, more specific environmental decision criteria are still overlooked. The findings underscore the necessity for additional research on circularity within the adaptive reuse process, emphasizing the significance of the often overlooked implementation phase, crucial for practices like disassembly. By offering a novel process perspective on AR decision-making, this study contributes to the growing discourse on adaptive reuse and provides a basis for further enhancement of AR decision-making frameworks.
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Despite the significant growth of the literature on adaptive reuse, little is known about the specific criteria unfolding throughout the different phases of the adaptive reuse decision-making process. To address this gap this paper aims to provide a comprehensive, state-of-the-art overview of the decision criteria for adaptive reuse throughout the adaptive reuse process. Through an integrative literature review with a systematic search strategy, three phases are substantiated: pre-project phase, preparation phase, and post-completion phase. This paper finds that despite the similarities between the different phases, with a predominant repetition of economic and architectural categories, more specific environmental decision criteria are still overlooked. The findings underscore the necessity for additional research on circularity within the adaptive reuse process, emphasizing the significance of the often overlooked implementation phase, crucial for practices like disassembly. By offering a novel process perspective on AR decision-making, this study contributes to the growing discourse on adaptive reuse and provides a basis for further enhancement of AR decision-making frameworks.
The built environment plays a crucial role in the ongoing challenge of climate change, primarily through resource consumption, energy use, and contributions to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As urbanization accelerates, the environmental footprint of construction and building operations has grown significantly. Currently, buildings account for 40% of the world’s waste, 40% of material resource use, and 33% of human-induced emissions.
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The built environment plays a crucial role in the ongoing challenge of climate change, primarily through resource consumption, energy use, and contributions to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As urbanization accelerates, the environmental footprint of construction and building operations has grown significantly. Currently, buildings account for 40% of the world’s waste, 40% of material resource use, and 33% of human-induced emissions.
Addressing housing deficits from a multi-dimensional perspective
A review of Chilean housing policy
After decades of battling the quantitative and qualitative housing deficits, Latin American countries are seeing new types of challenges in housing. Neoliberal policies favouring individual (low-cost) homeownership have weakened social trust and solidarity between neighbours, and some housing areas face poor urban amenities. An example of this is Chile, where housing policy measures have brought adverse effects such as deteriorating housing quality and the relocation of families to peripheral areas. This has caused the breakdown of family ties, community life, and social cohesion. Although various studies on the housing deficit in Chile have been carried out, these studies have not comprehensively addressed the multiple dimensions of housing. Therefore, this review explores how Chilean housing policies have addressed the housing deficit from four dimensions: quantitative, qualitative, urban, and social. To this end, we reviewed Chilean housing policies and programmes and their response to the housing deficit from the neoliberal period onwards. We found that these policies and interventions have focused on solving the quantitative and, to a lesser extent, qualitative and urban deficits while sparsely addressing the non-physical or intangible social dimension. We conclude this article with recommendations to address the social deficit of housing in future policies.
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After decades of battling the quantitative and qualitative housing deficits, Latin American countries are seeing new types of challenges in housing. Neoliberal policies favouring individual (low-cost) homeownership have weakened social trust and solidarity between neighbours, and some housing areas face poor urban amenities. An example of this is Chile, where housing policy measures have brought adverse effects such as deteriorating housing quality and the relocation of families to peripheral areas. This has caused the breakdown of family ties, community life, and social cohesion. Although various studies on the housing deficit in Chile have been carried out, these studies have not comprehensively addressed the multiple dimensions of housing. Therefore, this review explores how Chilean housing policies have addressed the housing deficit from four dimensions: quantitative, qualitative, urban, and social. To this end, we reviewed Chilean housing policies and programmes and their response to the housing deficit from the neoliberal period onwards. We found that these policies and interventions have focused on solving the quantitative and, to a lesser extent, qualitative and urban deficits while sparsely addressing the non-physical or intangible social dimension. We conclude this article with recommendations to address the social deficit of housing in future policies.
Data requirements and availabilities for material passports
A digitally enabled framework for improving the circularity of existing buildings
Passports for circularity, e.g., digital product passports and material passports (MPs), have gained recognition as essential policy instruments for the Circular Economy goals of the European Union. Despite the growing number of approaches, there is a lack of knowledge about the data requirements and availabilities to create MPs for existing buildings. By deploying a mixed-method research design, this study identified the potential users and their data needs within the context of European social housing organisations. Three rounds of validation interviews with a total of 38 participants were conducted to create a data template for an MP covering maintenance, renovation, and demolition stages. This data template was then tested in a case study from the Netherlands to determine critical data gaps in creating MPs, including, but not limited to the composition of materials, presence of toxic or hazardous contents, condition assessment, and reuse and recycling potential of a product. Finally, an MP framework is proposed to address these data gaps by utilising the capabilities of enabling digital technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence and scanning systems) and supportive knowledge of human actors. This framework supports further research and innovation in data provision in creating MPs to narrow, slow, close, and regenerate the loops.
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Passports for circularity, e.g., digital product passports and material passports (MPs), have gained recognition as essential policy instruments for the Circular Economy goals of the European Union. Despite the growing number of approaches, there is a lack of knowledge about the data requirements and availabilities to create MPs for existing buildings. By deploying a mixed-method research design, this study identified the potential users and their data needs within the context of European social housing organisations. Three rounds of validation interviews with a total of 38 participants were conducted to create a data template for an MP covering maintenance, renovation, and demolition stages. This data template was then tested in a case study from the Netherlands to determine critical data gaps in creating MPs, including, but not limited to the composition of materials, presence of toxic or hazardous contents, condition assessment, and reuse and recycling potential of a product. Finally, an MP framework is proposed to address these data gaps by utilising the capabilities of enabling digital technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence and scanning systems) and supportive knowledge of human actors. This framework supports further research and innovation in data provision in creating MPs to narrow, slow, close, and regenerate the loops.