The reuse of materials has been an important topic in architectural debates for a number of years. It is encouraged by the government, studied by scientists, featured in magazines and exhibitions, and increasingly adopted as a method by designers. In short, reuse is a hot topic.  

The growing popularity of reuse is closely linked to increasing concern about the environmental impact of the construction sector. Within that context, reuse is mainly seen as an innovative strategy that can promote waste reduction and limit the ecological damage caused by the production of new materials. That view is obviously correct, but… not very nuanced.