Reusing Traditional Logs in Housing Rehabilitation as Part of a Sustainable and Circular Economy

The forestry industry has evolved during its history by continuously adapting to the natural environment and new technological solutions, but its progression into the future has taken some different paths depending on the level of understanding for a sustainable greener future. Countries with a long wood culture have learned from the past and brought their knowledge into a sustainable forestry and building industry. This paper presents possible solutions for reusing timber, using logs as building materials, contributing to the regeneration of traditional heritage, and exploring the possibility of recycling and reusing materials after the building’s life cycle. The study includes solutions regarding the reuse and recirculation of old weathered wooden constructions, inspired by the Nordic countries. Climate adaptation has been a challenge since ancient times, and the Nordic climate offers more than difficult conditions. The buildings are adapted to the harsh climate and local resources, and the mountainous landscape offers building materials mainly in the form of wood and stone. Reuse and recirculation have always been practiced in the traditional construction of wood culture.