The most important aspect of sustainability is that we design, build, and produce with high technical construction quality and classic architectural values. This means that what we create has a long lifespan of 100+ years. We believe that a long lifespan is the single most significant CO₂-reducing factor.
Even our kitchens and furniture have a lifespan of over 100 years. In Denmark, kitchens are typically replaced every 11 years, according to Statistics Denmark (dst.dk). With a lifespan that is 10 times longer, our kitchens are more than 10 times more sustainable than an average kitchen when measured by lifespan.
It is important that we largely use natural materials. We aim to avoid chemicals and plastics. For example, plastic flooring ages poorly, and after 10 years, it becomes difficult to bear, leading to the need for a full replacement, which is a significant environmental burden. On the other hand, a solid wood plank floor ages beautifully and has a lifespan of 100+ years.
However, it is not entirely avoidable to use some chemicals and plastics to comply with building regulations. For instance, a waterproof membrane made of plastic is required under bathroom tiles to direct water to the drain. We use artificial materials only to the necessary extent.
The development of our prefabricated construction systems has had an enormous positive impact on sustainability. Prefabricated construction, as we do it, is far more resource-efficient than traditional building methods. Our experience shows that prefabricated construction reduces a building’s CO₂ emissions by more than 50% compared to traditionally constructed buildings.
We are not fanatical about sustainability, but we actively incorporate it into the design process as a significant and essential parameter. The development of our prefabricated building systems has had a huge positive effect on sustainability. Prefabricated construction, as we do it, is much more resource-saving than traditional building. Our experience shows that prefabricated construction reduces a building’s CO₂ emissions by more than 50% compared to traditional construction.
Ladegaard Architecture
Part of Ladegaard Group ApS