Sustainability Report

Embodied carbon strategies 

• The project uses timber extensively, including a wood-frame construction resting on a concrete base, larch facade panels, and timber flooring in covered outdoor areas. The architects highlight wood’s carbon-capturing potential, acoustic qualities, and ability to temper heat.
• Larch cladding is produced from regional materials and fabricated locally by a carpenter (Ortis GmbH, 8130 Frohnleiten). No pre-fabricated imported systems were used, supporting low-carbon sourcing and reducing transport emissions.
• The cladding design limits panel lengths to one storey, intentionally reducing offcuts and waste during both installation and future replacement.
• The building envelope incorporates rock wool (low thermal conductivity, diffusion-permeable, non-combustible, durable, water-repellent) and glass wool containing around 80 percent recycled glass, helping to reduce material-related embodied impacts.
• Concrete is used strategically for structural efficiency, long-term durability, and the ability to support future repurposing — thereby extending the building’s lifecycle and reducing the need for carbon-intensive rebuilds.

Operational emissions strategies 

• The enclosed urban layout allowed the architects to position large facade openings, strengthening visual connection to nature while supporting passive environmental performance.
• To prevent overheating, only two thirds of facade openings receive direct solar exposure; the remaining third is permanently shaded through variations in the facade rhythm.
• Constructive solar protection — including the rhythm of the larch ventilation formwork — ensures outdoor areas remain comfortable during hotter periods and reduces cooling demand.
• The building is designed for cross-ventilation, with both manual and mechanically assisted airflow to support effective summer and winter ventilation strategies.
• Shading measures are positioned to ensure comfortable indoor climates year-round, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
• Roof areas on the new childcare and extension volumes are extensively landscaped, improving microclimate, biodiversity, and thermal buffering.

Durable materials and simple detailing help lower long-term maintenance needs.The larch facade is designed in one-storey modules, making future replacement efficient and reducing waste. Robust elements such as the concrete structure and mineral-based insulation extend component lifespans and minimise servicing.