Concrete Osteosynthesis by Minjun Kang will be presented at the AT Awards live finals on 17 September 2025. Learn more about the project below.

University
Architectural Association

Concrete Osteosynthesis : Rejuvenation against Premature Obsolescence is a retrofit strategy for London’s ageing Large Panel System (LPS) concrete towers, aiming to extend their lifespan while addressing issues of structural safety, energy performance, and resident well-being. The project reinforces the existing buildings with prefabricated Glulam–CLT exoskeleton modules, improving structural integrity and enabling the integration of modern mechanical and electrical systems. Additional upgrades include enhanced insulation, passive ventilation strategies, and improved natural lighting through new deck access.

The proposal was developed through participatory engagement, including surveys and design workshops with residents. This collaborative process informed the design of features such as flexible internal layouts, balconies, and communal garden spaces tailored to local needs. The retrofit is designed to be implemented in a shorter time frame than conventional redevelopment, avoiding resident displacement and maintaining established community networks. Environmental performance is prioritised through the use of FSC/PEFC-certified timber and low-carbon construction methods, resulting in a reduction of embedded carbon by over 60%.

Affordability is maintained by combining targeted grant funding with efficient construction techniques. The intervention also aims to build local capacity by supporting workforce training in timber construction and retrofit skills. In contrast to demolition and rebuild approaches, which typically involve prolonged resident displacement, this method allows residents to remain in place throughout the process, offering a socially equitable alternative.

The project advocates adaptive reuse as a socially and environmentally responsible model for urban regeneration. It highlights the value of preserving both physical structures and the communities they house. By addressing the future of LPS towers in a way that is inclusive, scalable, and low-carbon, the scheme demonstrates how architectural retrofit can support long-term social resilience and climate goals.

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