Building component reuse as sociomaterial interaction: lessons from precast concrete

Building component reuse (BCR) has become a promising strategy for the construction sector to move towards sustainability transformation. Although earlier studies on the construction sector have characterised material flows as dynamic human–material interactions, the ways materials become valuable and exceed human control remain underexamined in the context of BCR. This study examines BCR through sociomateriality and explores the different manifestations of sociomaterial interactions in BCR. The study presents a qualitative single-case study on precast concrete element reuse in Finland, utilising 19 semi-structured interviews, 58 months of ethnographic observations, and secondary data gathered between 2021 and 2026. Eight sociomaterial interaction types—‘Compliance’, ‘Human orientation’, ‘Interpretative framing’, ‘Leverage’, ‘Proof of concept’, ‘Advocate for material’, ‘Exaptation’ and ‘Uncertain business environment’—are identified in which reused building components can manifest in two different ways: as an intermediary or as a carrier. To be successful, BCR needs to be addressed as a broad phenomenon rather than as a mere techno-economic management issue if meaningful sustainability transformation of the construction sector is to be promoted. The findings serve as recognised intervention points for facilitating the mainstreaming of BCR and the sustainability transformation of the construction sector in general.

PRACTICE RELEVANCE

Insights are provided for practitioners and policymakers to promote BCR. The study identifies eight sociomaterial interaction types that serve as recognised intervention points to facilitate the mainstreaming of BCR. This depends on both organisational interactions amongst multiple actors and technical requirements involving institutional conditions, demands and expectations. Accordingly, eight practical recommendations are suggested for practitioners and regulators that can be harnessed to mainstream of BCR. Public actors in regulation, procurement practices and circular construction policies can adapt technical requirements, institutional conditions, demand structures and shared expectations that shape construction activities.