Lineair till proven Circular

Wicked challenges from construction practice

During this lecture and conversation we will focus on discrepancies between intended design concepts and the – in many cases sobering – reality during construction, operation and disposal stages.

Architect and academic Elma Durmisevic speaks on how to bridge the gap between sustainable engineering, requirements of the construction industry, and market conditions.

‘Circularity’ is increasingly present in architecture and design education. But also in policy documents, tenders, competitions and debates on housing and construction practice. One of the main recurring questions is: (how) can actors remain aligned throughout design, production, construction, operation and disassembly stages of buildings and building components?

Diverging perspectives and interests, together with availability and affordability of materials, knowledge, data and other resources will weight heavily on decision-making processes. In the face of ecological challenges there is no room for stalling or conflicting strategies. The alignment of decision-making processes throughout the supply & (re)use value chain necessitates a concerted tour de force: both in the development and in the adoption of innovations.

This socio-technological conundrum challenges existing priorities in practice as well as in research and education.

Practical information

Date: 25 October 2022 - 19:00

Location: Stadscampus UAntwerpen - Aula s.C.103 - Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen

More info: website Antwerp University

Speakers

• Bob Geldermans – University of Antwerp, Faculty of Design Sciences

• Ben Croxford - Bartlett School Env, Energy & Resources

• Elma Durmisevic – Green Transformable Building Lab