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As part of the Perspective EU 2025 forum, organized by THE PLAN and Gruppo Maggioli and held in Venice in early May, a roundtable was held on the topic of the circular economy. The discussion focused on architectural solutions and best design practices that can be implemented to improve the built environment. The event featured renowned architects from around the world who addressed the topic from multiple perspectives.
The speakers included Markus Neuber from ALN - Architekturbüro Leinhäupl + Neuber, Luca Bertacchi from Bechu et Associés, Tobias Wallisser and Alexander Rieck from LAVA - Laboratory for Visionary Architecture, Giulia Pedemonte from Ameller Dubois, Katrin Bindner and Louis Becker from Henning Larsen, and Michelle Ange Maurice and Ambra Bernabò Silorata from AREP. The discussion was moderated by Alessandro Zoppini from Studio Zoppini Architetti.
During the roundtable, various challenges in addressing the issue were highlighted: when it comes to the circular economy, the real challenge lies in developing a broader vision that integrates and adapts architecture to the natural environment. This does not simply mean “adding trees to a building’s façade,” but adopting a more holistic, conscious approach that involves the entire society.
But how can this theory be made effective in practice? How can we design buildings that are truly sustainable and capable of hosting different functions over time? Consider buildings that can serve as a theater, then a church, then a school, and so on — in a cycle of flexible and reusable use. This marks a decisive shift: moving from a sole focus on energy and structural performance to considering a building’s adaptability to multiple functions.
This new paradigm must not be limited to Europe but must extend to contexts like Africa, Asia, and India, where countries produce — and consequently pollute — on our behalf. Thus, no single global solution exists; it is essential to identify multiple strategies, each adapted to the local context and rooted in territorial specificities.
There are many possible paths depending on geographic areas and available technologies, and these strategies must be designed for the long term. Currently, more is produced than consumed. Everything we produce should be intended to last over time. Starting with existing buildings and using local materials is a crucial step, and to achieve this, a cultural shift is needed — one that favors reduced use of materials, preferably recycled, and promotes buildings that are easy to assemble and reassemble. A fundamental step is involving the client: in architecture, there is a duty to educate and raise awareness among those commissioning projects so they can share this vision.
Reflecting on the concept of circularity, it is important to reconsider its definition: it is an umbrella term encompassing various practices — from material recycling to urban regeneration and intelligent resource use.
During the design phase, life cycle analysis and the use of specific metrics are essential. It is vital to work consciously, starting with what already exists, and to prioritize reuse over recycling. Recycling often involves dismantling and sending materials to treatment plants, whereas reuse involves reinserting building parts into the local economy through direct reuse or resale to community networks. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes social justice by avoiding resource extraction from distant countries and strengthening local economies.
Lastly, it is important to question one’s own practices, learn from existing best practices, and continually seek new approaches. As consumers and professionals, everyone has personal responsibility. Architects in particular have the power and responsibility to create narratives, spaces, and experiences that foster a more sustainable and resilient future.
>>> Discover The opening keynote of Perspective EU 2025 by Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi
Photography by Fabio Delfino
