Embodied carbon

Efficient

While Namai Miške does not currently hold sustainability certifications such as LEED or BREEAM, the project was guided by high environmental standards from the initial concept through to construction. The design embodies sustainable principles across materials, energy use, and lifecycle adaptability.

 

Natural timber was selected as the primary structural and finishing material, both for its aesthetic qualities and for its environmental benefits: low in embodied carbon, timber is able to store carbon over the building’s lifetime. 

During construction, waste reduction and responsible material use were prioritised, with recyclable and reusable materials favoured wherever possible. This approach minimised the project’s construction footprint. 

Although no official embodied carbon calculations are available, the material strategy suggests a substantially lower impact than a typical Lithuanian residential project of comparable scale.

Operational Emissions / Energy

Efficient

The houses were developed in line with passive house principles. Orientation maximises natural sunlight, while high-performance insulation and airtight construction ensure minimal heat loss. 

Heating is provided by a high-efficiency heat pump and all technical systems were designed to achieve a low energy demand during operation. 

While no numerical data on operational emissions is currently available, the strategies indicate a markedly reduced carbon footprint compared with conventional housing.

Afterlife

Although not a modular construction, the design considered long-term adaptability and future use. Interior spaces were planned for flexibility, allowing them to accommodate changing family needs or functional reconfiguration over time. 

Construction details were also developed to permit repairs or modifications without undermining the structural integrity of the whole. 

These decisions support durability, adaptability, and environmental responsibility across the building lifecycle.

Key products in low carbon design

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