ROAM: A Circular Window on the Future
ROAM is a fully circular pavilion located on the Zernike Campus in Groningen and serves as a showcase for circular construction in practice. The project stands out because approximately 90% of the pavilion consists of reused materials sourced from a local donor building.
What makes ROAM unique is its integrated approach: from digitally inventorying materials (urban mining), through careful dismantling and reuse, to design and engineering focused on disassembly (design for disassembly). The project was also realized through a unique collaboration between vocational and higher education students, working closely with companies and knowledge institutions.
Expert Jury Assessment
All submissions were evaluated by an expert and multidisciplinary jury consisting of representatives from the demolition and construction sectors, academia, education, and journalism. Entries were assessed based on four criteria: impact on circularity, innovation, sector relevance, and practical applicability.
The jury was highly positive about ROAM. According to the jury, the project demonstrates an integrated value-chain approach, is practical and scalable, has a significant impact on circularity, and is directly relevant to both the construction and demolition sectors. In particular, the collaboration between different educational levels and the connection between theory and practice were seen as innovative and forward-looking.
About the Award
The European Circular Economy in Construction Award is an initiative of the European Demolition Association (EDA). Its aim is to highlight the role of the demolition sector in the circular construction economy and to encourage young talent. In the Netherlands, the competition is organized by VERAS, which nominates the national winner to the European jury.
On to Dublin
With the winning entry by Stan Herder and George Maxi, the Netherlands will be represented by a strong candidate in the European competition. During the EDA Convention in Dublin, the team will have the opportunity to present the project to an international audience and compete for the European title. VERAS wishes Stan Herder and George Maxi the best of luck in Dublin.
Source of text and image: sloopaannemers.nl
