Reuse of Materials in the Construction Industry
ECONOMY & POLICY

Reuse of Materials in the Construction Industry

The built environment's relationship with the natural world is undergoing a profound transformation. Embracing material reuse is pivotal in this shift, as it enables the construction industry to transition from a linear 'take, make, dispose' paradigm to a regenerative, circular economy. This approach not only curtails waste and conserves finite resources, but also imbues architectural design with character, history, and soul. The reuse of materials challenges designers to think imaginatively—reimagining the latent potential of existing structures and crafting spaces that narrate stories of resilience, adaptability, and sustainability.

As a result, buildings incorporating reused materials often emerge as architectural landmarks, celebrated for both their distinctive aesthetic and their environmentally conscious ethos. Ultimately, material reuse in architecture has the capacity to revolutionise the built environment—fostering a circular economy that cherishes our cultural and environmental legacy.

One exemplary embodiment of this philosophy is the Actfit Arena, nestled in Hennur, Bengaluru. Designed by Ar. Mueen Haris, Founder of DS2 Architecture, the project stands as a testament to the power of recyclable and sustainable materials. Sustainable sports court construction, as exemplified by this initiative, transcends mere reduction of environmental impact—it signifies a commitment to building with foresight and responsibility. This project powerfully illustrates the adage that there is no such thing as waste in architecture; with adequate planning and vision, every remnant can find purpose. Remarkably, 92% of this project has been constructed using recycled, repurposed, or reused materials sourced from DS2’s previous projects.

“To successfully implement the ideology that with the right forethought, wastage should essentially be non-existent in any architectural project,” affirms Ar. Mueen Haris.

The materials utilised in the Actfit Arena were predominantly salvaged from multiple earlier DS2 projects. These include leftover textured wall paint, rebars from a demolished slab, remnant wall cladding panels, stretched fabric, and even wooden door frame lintels. Existing mild steel purlins and rafters from the original roofing were repurposed as structural supports for the gallery seating, nestled beneath wooden seater slabs. Bricks salvaged from the original workers’ quarters were meticulously cut, chiselled, and reused to construct the badminton court walls.

Throughout the entire project, there is a meticulous and harmonious orchestration of leftover materials and repurposed furnishings. Yet, rather than appearing disjointed or piecemeal, the completed structure reads as if it were thoughtfully and cohesively tailored—from inception to realisation.

By salvaging and reimagining the potential of materials from existing buildings, architects can forge singular and engaging spaces that reflect both innovation and environmental stewardship. This design philosophy resonates strongly with clients and communities yearning for eco-conscious solutions and inspires a new generation of designers to reevaluate the conventional building lifecycle. It is a rallying call to embrace a more circular and regenerative approach to the craft of architecture.

About DS2 Architecture DS2 Architecture is a multi-disciplinary practice headquartered in Bengaluru, with branches in Kochi and Mangaluru. Founded in 2006 by Ar. Mueen Haris, the firm began as a design studio and has since evolved into a comprehensive turnkey solutions provider—seamlessly bridging the gap between the drawing board and the final built form.

The built environment's relationship with the natural world is undergoing a profound transformation. Embracing material reuse is pivotal in this shift, as it enables the construction industry to transition from a linear 'take, make, dispose' paradigm to a regenerative, circular economy. This approach not only curtails waste and conserves finite resources, but also imbues architectural design with character, history, and soul. The reuse of materials challenges designers to think imaginatively—reimagining the latent potential of existing structures and crafting spaces that narrate stories of resilience, adaptability, and sustainability. As a result, buildings incorporating reused materials often emerge as architectural landmarks, celebrated for both their distinctive aesthetic and their environmentally conscious ethos. Ultimately, material reuse in architecture has the capacity to revolutionise the built environment—fostering a circular economy that cherishes our cultural and environmental legacy. One exemplary embodiment of this philosophy is the Actfit Arena, nestled in Hennur, Bengaluru. Designed by Ar. Mueen Haris, Founder of DS2 Architecture, the project stands as a testament to the power of recyclable and sustainable materials. Sustainable sports court construction, as exemplified by this initiative, transcends mere reduction of environmental impact—it signifies a commitment to building with foresight and responsibility. This project powerfully illustrates the adage that there is no such thing as waste in architecture; with adequate planning and vision, every remnant can find purpose. Remarkably, 92% of this project has been constructed using recycled, repurposed, or reused materials sourced from DS2’s previous projects. “To successfully implement the ideology that with the right forethought, wastage should essentially be non-existent in any architectural project,” affirms Ar. Mueen Haris. The materials utilised in the Actfit Arena were predominantly salvaged from multiple earlier DS2 projects. These include leftover textured wall paint, rebars from a demolished slab, remnant wall cladding panels, stretched fabric, and even wooden door frame lintels. Existing mild steel purlins and rafters from the original roofing were repurposed as structural supports for the gallery seating, nestled beneath wooden seater slabs. Bricks salvaged from the original workers’ quarters were meticulously cut, chiselled, and reused to construct the badminton court walls. Throughout the entire project, there is a meticulous and harmonious orchestration of leftover materials and repurposed furnishings. Yet, rather than appearing disjointed or piecemeal, the completed structure reads as if it were thoughtfully and cohesively tailored—from inception to realisation. By salvaging and reimagining the potential of materials from existing buildings, architects can forge singular and engaging spaces that reflect both innovation and environmental stewardship. This design philosophy resonates strongly with clients and communities yearning for eco-conscious solutions and inspires a new generation of designers to reevaluate the conventional building lifecycle. It is a rallying call to embrace a more circular and regenerative approach to the craft of architecture. About DS2 Architecture DS2 Architecture is a multi-disciplinary practice headquartered in Bengaluru, with branches in Kochi and Mangaluru. Founded in 2006 by Ar. Mueen Haris, the firm began as a design studio and has since evolved into a comprehensive turnkey solutions provider—seamlessly bridging the gap between the drawing board and the final built form.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

India Pushes Green Hydrogen Innovation to Lead Global Market

India’s drive towards achieving Net Zero by 2070 has gained fresh momentum as Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, called on scientists, startups, researchers, and industry leaders to position India as a global hub for green hydrogen innovation.He was speaking at the valedictory session of the first Green Hydrogen R&D Conference, organised under the National Green Hydrogen Mission by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The two-day event brought together experts to chart India’s course towards a clean, secure, and self-reliant energy fut..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

NARCL Sells Rs 37.63 Billion of Wind World Debt to Omkara ARC

The National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL) has successfully sold Rs 37.63 billion of Wind World’s outstanding debt, marking a significant step in managing stressed assets within India’s renewable energy sector. The transaction forms part of wider efforts to resolve non-performing loans and bolster financial stability in the industry.Omkara ARC emerged as the anchor bidder in the deal, demonstrating strong investor interest in renewable energy debt. Anchor bidders play a vital role in ensuring successful debt resolution and attracting participation from other investors in suc..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Madhya Pradesh Targets 50 Per Cent Power From Renewable Sources

Madhya Pradesh is ramping up its green energy generation, aiming for renewable sources to account for 50 per cent of the state’s total power consumption, a senior official has announced.“Renewable energy cannot be ignored. Solar power is now a viable option, and we are committed to significantly enhancing green energy generation in Madhya Pradesh, targeting 50 per cent of total power consumption from renewable sources,” said Manu Srivastava, Additional Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam, on Friday.Speaking at the inaugural session of the 8th GRIHA Regional Conclave in Bho..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?