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Design for Demountability
This session explores how demountability can move from aspiration to standard practice across development, design and construction. Drawing on live project experience, we examine the fundamental barriers to reuse, including inaccessible fixings, adhesives and vertical transport constraints, alongside the critical role of informed, ambitious clients willing to programme additional time for recovery.
We unpack how robust pre-demolition audits can set realistic reuse targets, align site teams and engage supply chains early—ensuring progress over perfection. The discussion highlights manufacturing challenges and emerging solutions, from modular internal glazing and carpet tiles to take-back schemes and remanufactured furniture, all requiring a shift in entrenched industry behaviours.
Finally, we consider how installation methodologies must evolve, with designers and clients embedding demountability into briefs, specifications and leasing strategies. Better record-keeping and clearer fit-out intentions can significantly increase material recovery, reducing waste and unlocking long-term value across building lifecycles.
