Sustainability Report

The design of Chappe Art House reflects JKMM Architects’ holistic approach to sustainability, rooted in material responsibility, energy efficiency, and sensitivity to place. The project favours low-carbon materials, passive design strategies, and compact land use, while engaging local craftspeople and reusing site-harvested resources. 

Although no formal LCA was conducted, carbon-conscious measures — such as a hybrid timber structure, local sourcing and reuse of materials, daylight optimisation, and an energy-efficient HVAC with heat recovery — help reduce embodied and operational emissions compared to a conventional all-concrete museum.

Embodied carbon strategies

• Hybrid structure: Concrete is used for structural stability in the basement and ground floor, with cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam elements above, reducing embodied carbon compared to an all-concrete frame.
• Timber focus: The project makes extensive use of locally sourced Finnish spruce for facades, interiors, and structural components.
• Efficient land use: The building is designed to fit into a small, irregular plot within Tammisaari’s museum quarter, minimising its physical footprint. The underground connection to the Raseborg Museum and a shared museum garden enhance resource sharing, avoiding additional construction.
• Material reuse: Trees felled on-site were transformed into custom furniture by local artisans, avoiding waste and transport emissions.
• Regional sourcing: All primary materials were sourced and fabricated in Finland, supporting the local economy and minimising transportation impacts.

Operational emissions strategies

• HVAC system: A centralised underground HVAC system with integrated heat recovery supplies efficient indoor climate control and returns surplus energy to the local district heating network.
• Daylighting optimisation: Large roof windows and carefully placed openings reduce reliance on artificial lighting, with light-control measures to protect artworks.
• Passive design: High insulation values, compact building form, and seasonal adaptability of public spaces reduce heating and cooling loads.