Sustainability Report
Custom Certificates
Embodied carbon
The carbon footprint of the Solem Forest House was calculated based on material specifications over a 60-year life cycle, resulting in total emissions of 500–550 kg CO₂e/m² (approximately 8–9 kg CO₂e/m² per year). The assessment includes all primary building components, specifically the timber frame and solid wood interiors, while the reuse of the 1946 masonry foundation further reduces the total embodied carbon. While the specific software or databases used were not disclosed, the methodology accounts for both the energy used in processing and transport, as well as the biogenic carbon stored within the wood, which acts as a negative emission during the production phase.
Afterlife
The project prioritizes long-term adaptability through a space-efficient 170m² floor plan designed for flexible use. The ground floor is fully accessible and configured to accommodate changing resident needs over time, whether serving as a primary living space for those with reduced mobility or as a separate unit for family and guests. This modularity ensures the building remains functional as the occupants' requirements evolve, extending its lifespan without the need for major structural alterations.
The house is fundamentally rooted in circular principles through the adaptive reuse of the original 1940s masonry foundation, significantly reducing the initial carbon debt. Its primary construction relies on solid wood and timber framing, which are inherently more suitable for the circular economy than composite materials. The focus on tactile, exposed wooden surfaces reduces the reliance on synthetic finishes and adhesives, facilitating easier separation and recovery of building elements at the end of the life cycle.
Key products in low carbon design
