Recyclable Architecture: Prefabricated and Recyclable Typologies

Buildings are being demolished without taking into the account the waste generated, and
the housing shortage problem is getting more critical as cities are growing and the demand for built
space and the use of resources are increasing. Architectural projects have been using prefabrication
and modular systems to solve these problems. However, there is an absence of structures that can
be disassembled and reused when the structure’s life ran its course. This paper presents three
building prototypes of new recyclable architectural typologies: (i) a Slab prototype designed as a
shelf structure where wooden housing modules can be plugged in and out, (ii) a Tower prototype
allowing for an easy change of layout and use of different floors and (iii) a Demountable prototype
characterized by the entire demountability of the building. These typologies combine modularity,
flexibility, and disassembling to address the increasing demands for multi‐use, re‐usable and
resource‐efficient constructions. Design, drawings, plans, and 3D models are developed, tested and
analyzed as a part of the research. The results show that the implementation of the recyclable
architectural concept at the first design stage is feasible and realistic, and ensures the adaptation
through time, increases life span, usability and the material reusability, while avoiding demolition,
which in turn reduces the construction waste and, consequently, the CO2 emissions.