As opposed to demolition (which is the complete teardown of a structure), deconstruction has been referred to as “construction in reverse.” Homes—like everything—have a lifecycle. Deconstruction allows selected materials within a dwelling to have a new life, once the structure as a whole can no longer continue. This process also keeps items out of the landfill (which we love!)

Every act of creation is, first of all, an act of deconstruction.

-Pablo Picasso

Although more complex than the otherwise straightforward process of razing, deconstruction preserves reusable elements for future purposes. One such purpose could be donating used building materials to charitable organizations like Habitat for Humanity (which also provides a donation pick-up service). Donation not only helps your community and the environment, but also may qualify you for a substantial tax deduction.

For more details, please check out habitat.org/restores/donate-goods.

The deconstruction phase at Mapleton Drive begins: detailed plans are set and confirmed; appropriate areas are protected or earmarked for removal, and jackhammers begin tearing away sections of the house. Scenes like the below appear to be full of chaos, but in reality, all efforts are methodical and targeted. Each recyclable appliance, fixture or material is carefully removed and preserved, while other elements are razed and hauled away.

Key items to remember include:

• Securely preserving parts of the house that will remain untouched. 

• Properly designating items to be repurposed.

• Ensuring the environmentally friendly disposition of waste to be properly loaded and transported off-site.

Photography by Romy Reiner