CANNIBALIZED MATERIALS [01]: ROMAN REUSE

The architectural cannibalistic tendencies of the Roman Empire is an acutely sustainable strategy. The society of ancient Rome often reused material from demolished structures - so much so that trade of deconstructed materials became extremely lucrative. Many monuments, temples, and structures in Rome today have deeper roots in the past through the cannibalistic strategies employed. Columns, capitals, motifs, and even foundations were reused and applied in many new builds during the Roman Empire; one popular example of this cannibalistic application is seen within the Arch of Constantine, which is composed primarily of reused building materials and components.001 This practice continued throughout the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance era, notably shown by the full cannibalization of the Septizonium to erect the foundation for the Obelisco di Piazza San Pietro in Vatican City.002 This form of adaptive reuse and material cannibalism has proven valuable to architecture and design. The materials which were cannibalized are long lasting and extremely durable, shown by their continued preservation to date. Modern building, design, and construction should strategically transition to material cannibalization to reduce waste, pollution, and carbon emissions - this foundational strategy will be a large step to ensure a more sustainable and viable future.

The Arch of Constantine showcases many cannibalized motifs. Notably, the attic frieze depicts Marcus Aurelius , (176 C.E.), the pediments showcase Dacian captives of Trajan (112 C.E.), below, the Roundels depict Hadrian (117-138 C.E.).003