Embodying circularity through usable relocatable modular buildings

Riikka Kyrö*, Tuuli Jylhä, Antti Peltokorpi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

40 Citations (Scopus)
474 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Purpose: Global megatrends such as urbanization and ageing of the population result in fast-paced demographic changes, which pose different types of challenges for different regions. While many rural municipalities bear the burden of under-used buildings, cities are in a hurry to develop new ones to meet new space demands. The purpose of this paper is to assess the potential of relocatable modular buildings to address these challenges, following the principles of circular economy, while at the same time offering usability. Design/methodology/approach: This multiple case study explores existing relocatable modular health-care buildings in Finland. The case buildings host hospital support functions, imaging services, a health-care centre and a care home. The primary data comprise 21 semi-structured interviews and observation during factory and site visits. Findings: Based on the findings, relocatable modular buildings have many benefits and provide a viable option for cities and municipalities struggling to meet their fluctuating space demands. Some challenges were also identified, mainly derived from the dimensional restrictions of the modules. Originality/value: This research contributes to the emerging body of knowledge on circular economy in the built environment. More specifically, the research provides a very concrete example of circularity and details a framework for usable and relocatable modular buildings. In conclusion, relocatable modular buildings could solve the challenges posed by quickly changing demographics in different types of regions and deliver both usability and circularity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)75-90
Number of pages16
JournalFacilities
Volume37
Issue number1-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 4 Feb 2019
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

Keywords

  • Building
  • Built environment
  • Circularity
  • Modular
  • Relocatable
  • Usability

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