Assessing the Repair and Reuse Potential of Postwar, System Based Concrete Buildings in Switzerland

In Switzerland, many postwar concrete buildings constructed using system based methods face premature demolition. Comprehensive knowledge gap on these prefabricated buildings hinders informed decision-making on repair and reuse strategies, which seek to preserve or re-purpose building components to minimize the need for raw materials. This paper introduces an assessment matrix that considers structural, environmental, historical and economic values for a multi-faceted evaluation of the repair and reuse potential of these structures. The matrix was applied to eight representative buildings in Zurich. The findings highlight the effectiveness and limitations of the assessment criteria for evaluating system based buildings and can guide researchers, practitioners, and governmental authorities. The proposed matrix seeks to extend the lifespan of postwar concrete buildings through repair and reuse while advancing the principles of a circular economy within the built environment.