Architectural freeform construction: potential use in repair for re-use, maintenance and manufacture of building components

The percentage of building refurbishment projects compared to new build has gradually increased in the UK due to a growing emphasis on lifetime value, sustainability and more effective facilities management. The amount of waste generated by the construction industry is also on the rise and has become a cause for concern such that in addition to adaptability, recycle-ability of building components and materials, it is now extensively addressed by the government, industry and the research community. Technological input in building construction is often proposed for highlevel, large-scale solutions and in many cases simple yet important applications are overlooked. Freeform construction technology is currently being explored as a potential solution for building component repair and maintenance as an alternative to part replacement when they fail. This paper discusses the potentials that freeform construction combined with reverse engineering techniques portend, as a ready tool for repair, maintenance and manufacture of failed building parts and components. It goes on to explain how this will contribute to the value and sustainability of the built environment, particularly within the heritage sector.