Towards Circular Renovation: An exploration of circular economy adoption in the architectural renovation of apartment buildings

Abstract

The architectural renovation of ageing apartment buildings presents a compelling socio-ecological agenda to promote sustainability in Australian cities. The concept of Circular Economy (CE), a model underpinned by resource conservation, regeneration, and waste elimination, has gained traction for its potential to decarbonise carbon- and waste-intensive sectors. However, existing research overlooks two critical dimensions: (1) CE’s application in apartment renovation, and (2) the social dimension of CE adoption, which constrains practical implementation. Grounded in the need for a more sustainable housing stock, this thesis seeks to understand: How can a Circular Economy approach be adopted in the architectural renovation of apartment buildings? Employing pragmatism as the philosophical framework and drawing on sociological and sustainability transitions theories, the research explores the social dimension of CE adoption in apartment renovation through three empirical studies: (1) comparative reviews of sustainable building rating systems, (2) phenomenological interviews with architectural professionals, and (3) case studies of CE initiatives in multi-residential projects. Insights from these studies underpin the CARE framework, a practical tool for embedding CE principles in apartment renovation. The thesis findings call for a CE transition grounded as a social agenda in the apartment sector: reforming artefacts to be CE-driven and accessible, empowering actors as change agents, and formalising and protecting CE activities to support the formation and reproduction of circular renovation practices. Overall, the thesis offers novel empirical insights into architecture, housing, and CE scholarship, while expanding the theoretical understanding of social practice and sustainability transitions. Its findings provide actionable guidance for research, policy, and practice to advance sustainable housing and the CE transition in Australia.