DESIGN PROCESS

In order to be most efficient with our analysis, we have developed a streamlined approach for analyzing circular materials strategies. Rather than measuring everything in a project, we quickly identify the top 20 capital carbon (stages A1-A5 of EN 15978) contributors within our current design, in order to establish a baseline. We then use a range of tools and processes to explore alternate methods that these items can be substituted for to increase their residual value in terms of carbon.

For tenant improvement projects in existing spaces, a pre-demolition audit is conducted when the space is taken over. This audit is conducted before strip-out, to look for useful materials that can be remanufactured, such as tables and chairs. This allows used furniture to be taken apart, tested, and re-warranted before being utilized in the new project. In many instances, clients cannot even identify a remanufactured piece of furniture from a new one, and these reclamations typically occur at a significant cost reduction from newly purchased items.

From this initial audit, materials can be sourced and identified for repurposing –such as tables that are no longer required either being joined together or cut down to meet client requirements.