In a world where construction waste often ends up in landfills, Second Edition, a Sydney-based studio, is taking a radical approach to design and construction. Founded in 2021, this innovative practice aims to reduce waste and promote a more sustainable future. Let's delve into their journey and explore the challenges and opportunities they've encountered along the way.
The Balancing Act of Material Reuse
Shahar Cohen, one of the studio's founders, describes the process of material salvage as a delicate balancing act. It's about carefully selecting and storing materials, ensuring they have a purpose, and avoiding unnecessary collection or storage. The key, according to Cohen, is to document everything meticulously and only take on projects where the materials can be utilized effectively.
"It's about knowing which materials to collect and store, and how to document everything carefully. We only take materials we know will have a destination..." - Shahar Cohen
While reclaimed materials can be cost-neutral compared to new purchases, the labor involved in processing them often adds to the expense. Second Edition has embraced this challenge by focusing on building efficiencies elsewhere in their business, allowing them to dedicate time and resources to material reuse.
Kitchens: A Case for Reuse
Amy Seo, another founder, highlights the potential for kitchen renovations. Older kitchens with timber frames, like the one in Potts Point Apartment, are often easier to work with due to their structural value. The willingness of clients to embrace open shelving also simplifies the process, as retrofitting doors can be labor-intensive.
Appliances are another surprising find. Seo mentions that people often discard perfectly usable appliances, which Second Edition salvages and incorporates into their projects. This not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch to each renovation.
The Challenges of Demolition and Design
Full demolition poses a significant challenge to material reuse. Mechanical demolition processes make hand deconstruction impractical, and Shahar Cohen emphasizes the need for genuine client investment in such cases. The studio's successful collaboration with Robert Plumb Build on a North Bondi project showcases the potential for careful deconstruction and material salvage.
"We've consistently found it very difficult to salvage materials from sites headed for full demo unless the client is genuinely willing to invest in it." - Shahar Cohen
Another hurdle arises when reuse is considered after the design phase. Retrospectively incorporating salvaged materials is often inefficient and unappealing to clients and architects. Cohen advises considering reuse early in the process to ensure a seamless integration.
Scaling Up: Bespoke to Mainstream
Second Edition has experimented with renders and terrazzo made from crushed stone off-cuts, a process they believe can be scaled up. The studio has successfully collaborated with contractors to develop these techniques, and with the right partners, they can establish square-meter rates and streamline the process.
"The processes... can definitely be replicated, and replicated at scale..." - Shahar Cohen
Overstock and Seconds: A Manageable Stream
Amy Seo explains that working with overstock and seconds materials is relatively straightforward. The quantities are known, the materials are organized, and the reasons for their "seconds" status are often well-documented. The challenge lies in managing the unique quirks of each second, such as color variations or imperfect straightness.
Growing Appetite for Reuse
Despite initial skepticism, Second Edition has witnessed a growing appetite for material reuse. While small local operators have struggled, the studio has seen a shift in perception, especially in the mid-range market. Clients are becoming more open to the idea of reuse, especially when it offers aesthetic and narrative value.
"The appetite has grown significantly... We've seen a number of companies in the reuse space close since then..." - Shahar Cohen
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Collaboration is at the heart of Second Edition's practice. Close relationships with builders and subcontractors, and direct communication with them, are vital. Many of their best reuse ideas have emerged from these collaborations, where a simple suggestion can lead to innovative solutions.
"Some of our best reuse ideas have come from them..." - Amy Seo
Future Focus: Papers, Plastics, and Metals
The studio is currently exploring two waste streams: papers and plastics, which are major contributors to construction site waste, and metal offcuts, which offer a continuous and reliable source for fixtures and fittings.
Advice for Integrating Reuse
Amy Seo advises early conversations with clients and builders about material salvage and reuse. It's essential to present it as a value-added proposition, both aesthetically and narratively, and to ensure it's considered from the project's inception.
"Speak to the client about it early... The projects where reuse has really worked are the ones where, from the very beginning, we've said: 'This is something we care about...'
Second Edition's journey is a testament to the potential for radical change in the construction industry. By embracing material reuse, they are not only reducing waste but also creating unique and sustainable designs. Their expertise and collaboration-focused approach offer a promising path forward for a more environmentally conscious future.
