Assessing Circularity in Building Design: Testing the Building Circularity Performance (BCP) Model Through a Case Study

Abstract

The transition toward a circular building sector requires robust assessment methods to measure circularity throughout the project lifecycle and compare design alternatives. However, existing circularity assessment methods lack a comprehensive systematic approach for building designs. In response, the Building Circularity Performance (BCP) assessment model is being developed based on established BCIs (Building Circularity Indicators) and ISO standards. This study tests the first version of BCP through a case study methodology, evaluating two design scenarios of a sample building-linear and circular-to assess the BCP’s practicality in differentiating circularity levels. Results demonstrate that as the design transitions from linear to circular, the circularity score improves, highlighting the model’s capability to quantify the impact of CE principles across different design strategies. The study also highlights potential pathways for adopting circular practices in building design. Unlike previous models, BCP incorporates a wider range of CE aspects, including material health, environmental impacts, renewable energy, water circularity, and broader design strategies like standardization, durability, and transportability. This framework would help decision-makers and designers to incorporate CE principles in projects, promoting a more circular building sector.