Sustainability Report

The project significantly reduces embodied carbon through light-frame wood construction, advanced framing, a monolithic concrete slab for reduced consumption, the use of ecological/carbon-neutral concrete, recycled plasterboard, and prioritizing local resources like wood and granite. The project implemented several strategies to reduce embodied carbon:

• Light-Frame Wood Composition with Advanced Framing: This approach allowed the use of only essential structural wood elements, directly reducing the amount of structural material required.

• Monolithic Concrete Slab: Utilized for the foundation, this significantly reduced concrete consumption.

• Ecological, Carbon-Neutral Concrete: Specifically opted for, further lowering the embodied carbon of the foundation.

• Prioritization of Local Resources: Emphasis on local resources such as wood and granite, reducing transportation emissions.

• Recycled Materials: Recycled plasterboard panels were used.

• Highly Efficient Envelope: Insulation exceeding building code requirements by 30% contributes to long-term durability, reducing future material replacement needs.

Conceptualized following "Passivhaus principles" and achieving a HERS score of 47 (53% more energy-efficient than a standard new home), with insulation exceeding code by 30%, optimized natural light, and thermal mass. Data shows the house consumes approximately 40% less energy than a comparable standard house.  The project employs the following comprehensive strategies to minimize operational emissions and energy consumption:

• Passivhaus Principles: The project was conceptualized following Passivhaus principles, aiming for ultra-low energy consumption.

• Highly Efficient Building Envelope: Constructed with insulation "exceeding building code requirements by 30%."

• Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Score of 47: This indicates that Les Bases is "53% more energy-efficient than a standard new home."

• Measurable Energy Reduction: Data collected shows the house consumes approximately 40% less energy than a standard house of comparable size.

• Bioclimatic Advantages: Leveraged through "solar orientation and natural ventilation."

• Optimized Natural Light: Openings have been carefully designed to "optimize natural light without causing overheating."

• Thermal Mass: The choice of materials complements the approach by providing "significant thermal mass," which helps regulate indoor temperatures.

The project's strategies related to service and maintenance emissions include:

• Durable Materials: The selection of materials for their durability, including ecological and recycled options, reduces the need for frequent replacement and associated maintenance.

• Highly Efficient Envelope: A highly efficient building envelope with superior insulation reduces the load on heating and cooling systems, potentially extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance needs.

• Healthy Living Space: The focus on creating a healthy living space through material selection minimizes harmful off-gassing, potentially reducing the need for certain types of maintenance or interventions.