Sustainability Report
Embodied carbon
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The building footprint was minimized relative to the total site area, reducing material demand and soil disturbance.
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The structure is organized around a simple, legible load-bearing system, limiting unnecessary structural complexity.
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A robust concrete base slab is paired with an upper wooden volume, combining durability with a renewable primary material above grade.
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The building geometry and siting were dictated by existing trees and topography, avoiding extensive earthworks and preserving soil carbon storage.
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Longevity is treated as a core carbon strategy: the house is designed to remain functional and relevant over several generations, reducing the need for replacement or major reconstruction.
Operational Emissions / Energy
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Geothermal heating provides low-temperature, high-efficiency space heating with reduced operational emissions.
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High-performance insulation and airtight construction significantly lower heating and cooling demand.
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Solar photovoltaic panels contribute on-site renewable electricity generation, reducing reliance on grid energy.
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Large south-facing glazed areas are balanced with overhangs and tree shading, enabling passive solar gains in winter while limiting summer overheating.
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Bedrooms are positioned within the enclosed wooden volume, reducing direct solar exposure and cooling demand.
Service and maintenance emissions
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Durable primary materials (concrete base, timber superstructure) reduce the frequency of replacement and associated service emissions.
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Technical systems are centralized and accessible, allowing maintenance without invasive interventions.
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Passive design measures reduce dependence on complex mechanical systems, lowering long-term servicing requirements.
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The preservation of existing trees contributes to site resilience, reducing landscape maintenance and irrigation demand.
Afterlife
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The clear separation between the base slab, wooden volume, and glazed living volume allows internal spaces to be reconfigured over time.
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The longitudinal plan and generous spans support alternative future uses, such as multi-generational living or partial program changes.
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The basement mirrors the ground floor footprint, providing adaptable space that can evolve independently from primary living areas.
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Timber elements in the upper volume are largely dry-assembled, allowing selective disassembly or replacement.
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Large glazed systems are installed as complete units, facilitating future removal or upgrading.
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The structural clarity supports partial reuse of components rather than total demolition at the end of the building’s life cycle.
Key products in low carbon design
