Sustainability in architecture is based on simple yet significant practical decisions: reusing existing buildings and materials, or, when new construction is necessary, prioritising local and renewable resources. However, the choice of materials is not merely a technical matter – it triggers chain reactions that engage and transform the practices of many actors, influencing cultural and economic processes, and at times even giving rise to entirely new sectors. This discussion invites a deeper look into the potential of reused and renewable materials, the challenges of applying them, and the emerging directions in architectural practice.

Le Magasin Électrique, a renovation by BC architects and Assemble using local materials. The building is a former industrial site that has been converted into an experimental bioregional design centre, which also houses the Atelier LUMA laboratory.

Photo by Joana Luz.

The event will bring together two experts in the field: designer Clara Kernreuter, who has spent many years working with Atelier LUMA (LUMA Arles) in southern France, contributing to the development of bioregional mapping methods; and Sanne Verhoeve from the Rotterdam-based studio Superuse, which focuses on circular material applications in the construction sector. The speakers will not only present their practices and projects developed in collaboration with architects, where sustainable solutions have been implemented, but will also engage in a broader discussion on the possibilities of applying reused and renewable materials in buildings and their impact on territorial and economic circularity.

The discussion will be moderated by Laura Linsi – an architect working between Estonia and the United Kingdom, known to Lithuanian audiences as the editor of MAJA magazine, one of the curators of the Baltic Pavilion at the 2016 Venice Architecture Biennale, and the exhibition architect of “We Don’t Do This. Intimacy, Norms and Fantasies in Baltic Art.” at the MO Museum in 2024.

Superuse’s studio project Buitenplaats Brienenoord is a community cultural centre made almost entirely from repurposed building elements.

Photo by Frank Hanswijk.

The event is part of the HouseEurope! campaign – not only aiming to raise awareness about the initiative in Lithuania, but also to invite discussion on the future of European cities. The talk is also part of the Circular Design (CiD) Innovation Alliance, co-funded by the European Union.

Date and Venue:

2 July, 19:00

Tech Zity, Materials Library (3rd floor), Panerių St. 43

About the Speakers

Clara Kernreuter is a craft & product designer who graduated from the École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs (ENSAD) in Paris, with additional studies in social and political sciences. Since 2020, she has been working at Atelier LUMA (LUMA Arles) as a designer and project leader. In her role, she contributes to the development of bioregional mapping methodologies designed to represent local dynamics, territorial resources, and networks of actors in order to support projects deeply rooted in their context, with a strong focus on social, ecological, and cultural dimensions.

Sanne Verhoeve is an experienced materials scout. She intermediates circular building materials for Superuse projects as well as for external clients, including architectural firms, interior designers and contractors. Sanne immerses herself in bio-based materials and shares her knowledge about them within the agency.

Laura Linsi edits MAJA, a spatial culture magazine from the Baltics, works on architecture projects at LLRRLLRR, and teaches at Central Saint Martins UAL and at the Estonian Academy of Arts.