Axiomatic Design and Design Structure Matrix for Circular Building Design

The study aims to propose the integration of Axiomatic Design (AD) and Design Structure Matrix (DSM) methods to support the implementation of building reversibility within circular building design (CBD). In CBD, strategies for building reversibility have been formulated, but available tools mainly support design evaluation in the late stages. On the other side, in engineering design, methods to support reversibility in early design stages are available. AD and DSM are two matrix-based product modelling methods that are used in the analysis and modelling of relations in complex systems from the concept design. AD guides the designers in modelling the relationships between functional elements and physical components in a structured manner from the early design stages. DSM provides a method for modelling physical relationships among the physical components and groups them into modules. Despite the potential benefits of using these matrix-based design methods, previous studies on building reversibility within CBD have not yet explored this proposition. The study intends to place the theoretical premises for the application of AD combined with DSM within CBD for building reversibility. The study applies theory-oriented research by exploring, collecting, and evaluating relevant information from different theoretical and practical sources to formulate propositions on building reversibility within CBD. Propositions will be tested in future real-world applications while detecting challenges and limitations to assess effectiveness in supporting building reversibility within CBD.