Sustainability Report

The project meets or surpasses Novoclimat standards. Novoclimat is Quebec’s official energy‑performance certification programme for newly built homes and multi-unit residential buildings.

The design reflects a deep commitment to passive environmental performance and resilient, low-maintenance construction systems.

Embodied Carbon

Although a full Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was not commissioned, MUUK estimates that the building’s embodied carbon is significantly reduced due to:

• Limited use of high-emission materials such as plastics or synthetic insulation.
• Local sourcing of heavy materials — stone and concrete.
• Minimal excavation or heavy machinery on-site.

Sustainable Materials

• Exterior stone cladding: Natural stone was sourced from a quarry located less than 20 km from the site.
• Metal roof and siding: Pre-finished standing seam steel, chosen for its long lifespan and recyclability.
• Concrete flooring: Provides thermal mass and longevity, with no need for applied finishes.
• Wood: All wood elements, including cladding and structural components, are FSC-certified.
• Interior finishes: The design avoids unnecessary surface treatments with no varnish or paint on the ceilings or millwork, reducing long-term maintenance and emissions.

Low-Carbon Strategies

• Passive solar design: The home's orientation is optimised to capture winter sunlight, while existing tree canopies provide shade during summer months, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling.
• Thermal envelope: High-performance wall assemblies with continuous insulation and air-sealing strategies have been used. All insulation is stone wool (mineral wool), chosen for its durability, fire resistance, and superior thermal performance.
• Electric radiant floor heating: This low-impact system is paired with a highly insulated envelope to reduce overall energy demand.
• Minimal site intervention: Less than one percent of existing trees were removed during construction. There was no blasting involved, and the home was carefully sited to follow the natural topography.
• Low operational carbon: The home has no pool, spa, or garage — these deliberate decisions by the client reduce energy and material use over time.