A key challenge for projects prioritising reuse is the unpredictability of material availability and its quality, condition, and quantity, which influences the project’s logistics and design processes. Due to the variability of reused materials and the iterative design process, acquiring permits to meet aesthetic and functional urban standards was more demanding. In general, circular projects involve unpredictable logistics, high initial costs, and the need for advanced tools and processes to optimise resource use.

Reusing materials required addressing uncertainties about availability, quality, and condition, which often complicated project timelines and logistics. In De HER’s case, most materials were harvested from a single source: the dismantled Delft laboratory, significantly reducing typical challenges associated with sourcing and securing materials. All materials were pre-documented in a materials passport, facilitating assessment and reuse.

The building was constructed with modularity in mind, enabling efficient use of space and ensuring components could be easily dismantled and reused in the future, further extending the lifecycle of materials. Tools such as 3D modelling and structural assessments optimised the reuse of materials with minimal modifications, reducing energy demands and improving resource efficiency.

The municipality of Rotterdam aims to leverage this facility to increase both individual and corporate capacity for circularity. It offers a blend of practical, hands-on activities and educational opportunities, making it a dynamic environment for learning and development.

Additionally, the facility hosts school tours, internships, and research opportunities, inspiring future generations to adopt circularity in their lifestyles and careers.

By reusing materials from the Delft laboratory, De HER avoided waste creation, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and lowered embodied carbon compared to traditional construction methods. The project preserved natural resources by minimising the need for virgin materials. Materials passports, 3D modelling, and modular construction techniques streamlined the reuse process, offering a replicable approach for future circular construction projects. De HER demonstrated the feasibility of reusing entire buildings, providing a model for future projects in Rotterdam and beyond. Its success supports the city’s goal of halving primary raw material use by 2030.

The project also had some social benefits. The Upcycling Mall and circular centre are interactive spaces for education, creativity, and community engagement. The facility has become a resource for students, residents, and circular entrepreneurs, strengthening the local circular economy. By creating spaces for collaboration, workshops, and social interaction, De HER fosters a sense of shared responsibility for sustainability among residents, businesses, and visitors.