What if? Open questions and design scenarios on the upcycling of long-span structural components from 20th century authorial architecture

This paper delves into the urgent priority of energy saving in building contemporary architecture, particularly focusing on the environmental impact of demolishing 20th century long-span reinforced concrete structures. The study ponders an upcycling process as a promising solution in reusing existing structural components in new constructions to reduce resource waste and pollution. Rooted in the “Design for Disassembly” principle, the research explores the theoretical implications of disassembling, remanufacture and reassembling structural elements also in the heritage field, extending the theoretical implications on tectonics in architecture. Drawing from existing literature, the paper discusses good practices of salvaging architectural elements, emphasizing the need to preserve valuable heritage through pragmatic disassembly and reassembly processes; furthermore, it aims to deepen the transformative potential of upcycling while addressing ethical, methodological, and design challenges. The investigation highlights the criticality of concrete structures’ demolition in today’s construction industry and advocates for a circular construction approach that prioritizes reusing building components. Through two case studies of Pier Luigi Nervi’s not-heritage listed industrial architecture, the paper questions the fate of abandoned structures and proposes upcycling process as a mean to preserve both material and intangible heritage. Nervi’s innovative approach to prefabrication serves as a model for integrating structural correctness with aesthetic expression, offering insights into the potential of upcycling long-span structural components for the design of new buildings, thus preserving the memory of construction techniques and architectural spaces. Beyond environmental benefits, “Design for Disassembly” approach and upcycling process facilitates the transmission of cultural heritage, fosters local value chains, and inspires innovative design solutions.