From principles to practice: A systematic literature review of design for manufacture and assembly and design for deconstruction strategies for a circular construction industry

Abstract Circular economy principles aim to minimize waste and extend the lifecycle of resources, demanding a holistic approach that integrates material strategies with production and design processes. Within this context, design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) and design for deconstruction (DfD) emerge as pivotal methodologies for maximizing the advantages of modular construction while addressing the limitations of conventional practices. By streamlining manufacturing, facilitating disassembly, and enabling reuse, these approaches align construction processes with sustainability imperatives. This study critically examines the potential of DfMA and DfD to meet the rising demand for rapid, modular, and environmentally responsible building solutions. It explores their conceptual foundations and practical applications through an in‐depth analysis of selected case studies, revealing how these methodologies enhance efficiency, adaptability, and environmental performance. A particular focus is placed on their integration with digital tools, notably building information modeling (BIM), which supports precise planning, lifecycle management, and data‐driven decision‐making. Findings indicate that the absence of sector‐specific standards and lifecycle‐oriented frameworks limits the widespread adoption of DfMA and DfD. This underutilization highlights the need for BIM‐enabled, interdisciplinary models that bridge the gap between theory and practice. The study synthesizes theoretical insights, bibliometric evidence, and empirical results to propose a research agenda aimed at embedding these design strategies into mainstream construction practices. In conclusion, this study offers empirical evidence that the integrated application of DfMA, DfD, and BIM within a circular‐economy framework can shift the construction sector from a linear, waste‐driven paradigm to an adaptable, resource‐efficient, and regenerative model. Such an approach not only addresses urgent environmental challenges but also underpins long‐term economic and social sustainability in the built environment.