Can buildings be circular systems?

If we were to think of buildings as living beings, how might that change the way we approach their design? Rather than thinking of them as static objects, they might become dynamic, responsive and adaptive systems––designed to continuously evolve and regenerate. They might have metabolisms in which their resources are reused in a closed-loop system rather than introducing a constant stream of new materials.

They might be designed for adaptability to adjust to the needs of their occupants over time. And, their full lifecycle might be considered from the start, where components are designed for disassembly and can be reused or recycled at the end of their useful life.

And that’s exactly what Marcus Hopper, project director and senior associate in the Gensler San Francisco office, urges designers to consider––design with the end in mind. What is the second life of that material or component?