Miss Asteria Chen
Research Project:
Circular [re]design to enable disassembly and reuse of mid-rise timer buildings.
Research Description:
This research explores how design for disassembly strategies can improve the circularity and environmental performance of mid-rise mass timber buildings in Australia. It combines design research, case study analysis, and life cycle assessment methods to develop practical frameworks and tools for implementation. The project aims to support industry adoption of circular design approaches in the built environment.
Researcher Biography:
Bachelor of Architectural Design (2019), University of Queensland. Master of Architecture (2022), University of Queensland.
Asteria Chen is a PhD candidate at the University of Queensland, School of Architecture, Design and Planning. Her research focuses on circular design strategies for mass timber buildings, with particular emphasis on design for disassembly and reuse to support more adaptable and climate-responsive built environments. Prior to commencing her PhD, she worked as an Environmental Sustainable Design (ESD) researcher at Populous, contributing to projects in sustainable building design, climate analysis, embodied carbon assessment, and façade performance.
Since 2023, she has been engaged with the University of Queensland as a tutor and research assistant, contributing to several projects. In addition, she has been a member of the UQ Young Alumni Board since 2025, supporting initiatives that enhance engagement between students and alumni.
Research interests:
Circular construction, Circular Economy, Design for Disassembly (DfD), Design for Reuse (DfR), Mass timber buildings, Life cycle assessment, Sustainable design, Adaptive reuse, Building Performance.
Principal supervisor:
Dr. Paola Leardini
Contact email:
b.chen1@adp.uq.edu.au