In the heart of Moscow, a 1970s movie theatre met its end in 2019, but its legacy is far from forgotten. As the building was demolished, a substantial amount of steel was recycled, while brick and concrete were sent to landfills. However, a new study led by Deniz Üçer Erduran from Bilkent University suggests that there might have been a more sustainable and historically rich alternative: spolia.
Spolia, the practice of repurposing components from older buildings into new constructions, is not a new concept. Historically, unique components were the primary focus. But in today’s world of mass production, this approach takes on a new dimension. By diverting materials from waste streams, spolia preserves their inherent properties and facilitates the rapid transfer of stylistic features, contributing to a more sustainable and culturally rich urban landscape.
Erduran’s research, published in the Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies, delves into the potential of spolia as an alternative to traditional demolition. The study involved a meticulous documentation of the movie theatre’s urban and architectural context, including a literature review and on-site visual documentation conducted during the demolition. This process aimed to uncover the history related to the production and characteristics of the materials used in the building.
“The significance of this study lies in providing a valuable record of this lost building,” Erduran explains. “It also offers a proposal that contributes to the community’s memory through the materials of a demolished neighborhood structure.”
The research focused on estimating the building’s material stock and identifying the approximate quantity of reusable items. This data-driven approach strengthens the rationale for potential spolia execution, emphasizing the development of a design alternative that utilizes the identified materials within a public landscape. The proposal includes adding data labels to inform the community about the source of the materials, fostering a sense of connection and continuity.
So, how might this research shape future developments in the field? For one, it challenges the status quo of demolition and waste management in the construction industry. By highlighting the potential of spolia, Erduran’s work encourages a shift towards more sustainable and culturally sensitive practices. This is particularly relevant in the energy sector, where the demand for sustainable materials is on the rise.
Moreover, the study underscores the importance of documentation and data collection in the repurposing process. By providing a detailed record of the movie theatre’s materials, Erduran’s research sets a precedent for future spolia projects, making the process more efficient and effective.
In an era where sustainability and cultural preservation are increasingly valued, spolia offers a compelling solution. It’s not just about reducing waste; it’s about preserving history, fostering community connection, and promoting sustainable practices. As Erduran’s research shows, the potential of spolia is vast and waiting to be explored.