26 August 2025
Article: ‘Reuse of Building Component’
In its 4/2025 issue, nbau—Nachhaltig Bauen explores the ‘Wiederverwendung von Bauteilen’ (Reuse of Building Components). Christoph Gengnagel (UdK Berlin & Partner at B+G) and Richard Hees (UdK Berlin) contribute their perspectives on ‘Schadstoffsanierung als architektonische Praxis’ (Pollutant Remediation as an Architectural Practice).
The article addresses a critical yet often overlooked challenge in the sustainable transformation of the built environment: the presence of hazardous materials in post-war buildings, particularly in single-family homes built between 1950 and 1990. Many of these socially and economically homes face issues such as outdated construction materials, delayed maintenance, and limited financial resources for refurbishment. Despite these challenges, they form a crucial part of the existing building stock needed to advance circular and sustainable construction.
Through a detailed case study, the authors argue that hazardous material remediation must be recognised as a central element of architectural design practice. It should not be treated solely as a technical or regulatory obligation, but as a collaborative design challenge that requires close coordination between architects, surveyors, waste management experts, and all contractors.
Visual: nbau-Nachhaltig Bauen