Embracing Circular Design: The Circular Office in Düsseldorf by urselmann interior
The construction industry is a major contributor to global waste generation, accounting for 60% of total waste. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainability, urselmann interior approaches design with a circular economy mindset, viewing waste as valuable nutrients rather than flaws.
Achieving Circularity in Office Design
Based in Düsseldorf, the young team at urselmann interior showcases the possibility of building entirely circular spaces. Their own office serves as a prime example, featuring interior design crafted from healthy, recyclable materials. The goal is to create sustainable interiors without compromising on modern aesthetics, blending functionality, design, and sustainable materials seamlessly.
Proactive Waste Avoidance
During the office renovation process, the team encountered significant waste generation, highlighting the inefficiency of traditional design practices. Owner Sven Urselmann emphasizes the importance of waste avoidance from the outset of the design phase, aiming to minimize construction waste and maximize material reuse.
Sustainable Material Choices
All materials and products used in the office are either biodegradable, upcyclable, or sourced from reused construction products. Mechanical joints are preferred over adhesives to enhance recyclability, while a detailed material passport documents every component for future reuse. Through platforms like Concular, sustainable products like radiators and lighting are sourced, contributing to the circularity of the space.
A Living Laboratory for Innovation
Beyond serving as an office, co-working space, and showroom, the space functions as a testing ground for new materials and techniques. This experimental approach allows the team to gain insights into material behavior over time, facilitating continuous improvement and innovation.
Transitioning to a Circular Economy
Since 2020, the team has been reevaluating their planning and manufacturing processes, aiming for a complete transition to a circular economy. Guided by the Cradle to Cradle philosophy, their goal is to ensure that all materials used can circulate perpetually in either biological or technical cycles. By designing for circularity from the outset, they envision a future where every component can be easily disassembled, collected, and repurposed at the end of its lifecycle.
Through proactive waste avoidance, sustainable material choices, and a commitment to innovation, the Circular Office in Düsseldorf by urselmann interior embodies the principles of circular design, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the construction industry.
