Towards a Circular Mashrabiya in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review, Evidence Mapping, and Material Screening of Recycled Construction and Demolition Waste Pathways

Saudi Arabia’s expanding construction sector and increasing generation of construction and demolition (C&D) waste create a need to explore higher-value architectural applications for recovered materials while supporting culturally responsive and climate-adapted design. In this context, this study maps evidence on recycled C&D materials and screens selected material pathways for suitability, architectural applicability, and implementation readiness, using environmental and technical indicators to inform the future development of a circular Mashrabiya as a contemporary reinterpretation of the Saudi Rowshan. The study does not propose a detailed fabrication route or component design. It combines a PRISMA 2020 systematic literature review with an exploratory comparative assessment of primary and recycled material pathways. The review identified 1254 records, screened 1107 unique records, and included 51 studies in the final qualitative synthesis. No high-confidence study directly validates a recycled-content Mashrabiya; therefore, we interpret the material recommendations as research-readiness priorities rather than demonstrated optimal solutions. Based predominantly on moderate/transferable evidence, recycled aluminum emerges as the highest-priority pathway for future prototype testing in lightweight and geometrically complex applications. Recycled steel remains a viable alternative where greater structural contribution is required, although weight and corrosion protection remain constraints. Recycled aggregates remain relevant for C&D waste diversion and hybrid or more massive façade applications, despite more limited advantages for intricate screens. Comparable Saudi component-level fabrication and procurement cost data were insufficient to derive a defensible percentage cost saving; therefore, no cost-effectiveness advantage is claimed, and component-level life-cycle costing is identified as a priority for the subsequent prototype phase. The findings support a heritage-informed decision framework integrating environmental performance, fabrication feasibility, climatic resilience, material circularity, and Saudi implementation readiness.