A vertical reuse assessment model for industrial building stock: structural and circular assessment at early design stage

Abstract

This paper shows the potential of introducing Vertical Reuse Indicators for measuring the vertical reuse of existing load-bearing structures of industrial buildings in Austria. It applies these Vertical Reuse Indicators in a vertical reuse assessment model and a computational design workflow that automates the variant generation and indicator-based comparison of three different scenarios of building extension: vertical reuse (Scenario A) as a sustainable alternative to horizontal extension (Scenario B) or greenfield development (Scenario C). The four key indicators - Structural Preservation, Vertical Extension, Unsealed Area, and Layout Flexibility - are decisive for the assessment. The proof-of-concept shows the effectiveness of the assessment model, particularly in emphasizing the valuation of structural reuse and the positive contribution of vertical extension to land sealing. The presented study enables early, data-driven decisions and supports the integration of vertical reuse into industrial construction, advancing circular economy principles.