Reimagining permanence in architecture
How adaptable and circular design principles can enhance the value and durability of buildings
H.J. Stuer (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Ivan Nevzgodin (TU Delft - Heritage & Architecture)
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Abstract
The misguided idea of permanence in architecture has proven to be an illusion (Brand, 1994; Ford, 1997). Present-day solutions such as the adaptive and circular design of buildings strive to enable frequent changes in buildings to satisfy the needs of users in our transient society. However, this challenges the idea of permanence in architecture, a concept that people profoundly believe in (Ford, 1997).
By outlining the new notion of permanence as identified by Katrina Touw (2006) and the principles of adaptable and circular design as identified in recent literature studies (Asker et al., 2021; Hamida et al., 2022). Then establishing a framework which shows the relation between the two topics used to evaluate five case studies. This thesis seeks to identify if the new approach to building design strives to achieve permanence and in what way.
We can conclude that by thinking about the inherent value of the building at its end-of-life whether it be to maintain, reuse, recycle, or repurpose, the stakeholders involved in the design process actively engage in achieving permanence.