Parametric design and LCA for temporary structures: structural material options and optimization of multiple installation cycles using genetic algorithm

In continuity with the growing LCA-integrated design approaches, this paper presents a method for integrating LCA datasets into a parametric model to assess and optimize the environmental impact of a temporary building during the design phase. A temporary structure built with reversible technologies, the TemporActive Pavillion (TA), is used as a case study to present and verify the proposed methodology. In the first analysis, the parametric model is used to estimate the environmental impacts of three alternative building systems during the early design and therefore guiding the designer towards the most eco-aware choice with respect to the project requirements. In the second analysis, genetic optimization solvers are used to define the number of the needed life cycles to minimize the environmental impacts of a temporary structure compared to the single-use scenario. Results show that the method can support the designer in the early design stage in choosing the most appropriate material and technological option, taking into account also the eco-efficiency requirements. Further developments are needed for making the method less theoretical but usable as a designsupportive tool in the architectural practice.