More and more architects, researchers and policymakers are asking a simple question: does that building actually need to come down? This meet-up explores how we can choose to not demolish, through both design and policy.

About the meet-up

The Rotterdam Architecture Month 2026 puts circularity at its centre, and one of the most urgent questions within that is how we deal with the buildings we already have. Demolition and new construction are rarely the most sustainable option, yet they remain the default. This meet-up explores how that default can change, from individual buildings and materials to broader habits within the construction sector.

A few practitioners will share their work and thinking in a panel, after which we open up the conversation to all participants. Central questions are:

• How do we make working with existing buildings the norm rather than the exception?
• What needs to change for contractors, municipalities and architects to move away from the demolition reflex?
• How do we balance the practical side of renovation and reuse with the social and cultural value of what already exists?
• What does a city’s architecture look like when we opt for renovation and reuse?

This session will be in English.

Practical details

• Location: Test Site Materialenwerf, Keilewerf, Rotterdam
• Walk-in: 13:30
• Meet-up: 14:00 – 16:30 uur
• Drinks: 16:30 – 17:30 uur

If you would like to attend, please get in touch with Teus Hagen via t.hagen@airrotterdam.eu.

Panel members

• André Kempe (Atelier Kempe Thill)
• Floris Alkemade
• Rotterdam Circulair

Photo: Paul Swagerman