Superuse; Constructing new architecture by shortcutting material flows

by Ed van Hinte (Editor), Césare Peeren, Jan Jongert

Cable reels, window frames, washing machines, diapers, crates, carpet tiles, double glazing panels or old buses--you could recycle, discard or even burn all of these things. The other option is to put them to good ‘superuse.’ This is happening everywhere, albeit on a modest scale. Architects apply these materials in their designs. Superuse is a practical and inspiring book about constructing new buildings with surplus materials. It was initiated by Recyclicity, a Rotterdam foundation dedicated to such possibilities. Copiously illustrated with examples from the Netherlands and elsewhere, Superuse presents ideas for tools and methods for architects and superuse scouts such as the ‘harvest map’ of everything reusable within a given distance of a building site. Superuse renders the superfluous superfluous.

141 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Margarita Kyanidou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Designing with a product that wasn’t meant to be a construction component gives the architect both freedom and uncertainty. There is a freedom of choice when it comes to the purpose-new construction identity of the material and the uncertainty of the feasibility of the design. The form-finding process starts with the materiality when in most cases the materiality comes in later stages. Therefore, it is a demand to “understand the material” first. The book gives a variety of material "superuse" examples in constructions. A great way to discover the principles behind upcycle non-construction materials in Architecture. Recommended to young and old Superusers!

[Carson Yusishen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book that displays and explores the act of renewing the value of old used products, sometimes past their initial value, by giving them a new life as an architectural element. This repurposing of used products conserves the energy of transportation, recycling, renewing, or in the worst case, tossing the product in a landfill. I am a huge fan of environmentally conscious/net-zero architecture and this book broadened my perspective of what those buildings could look like and entail.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very cool, interesting uses and a practical look at how recycling, reuse and in the end, reduction of materials can create positive impact. Still tough is the question of materials, their embedded energy and the functionality of items once they have finished life as they know it, but the book explores the pros and cons of this effectively and with charm. Good stuff.