Ruxandra Palcu Architects
Health, comfort and well-being
A building can reach the whole-life net zero carbon target when its operational zero carbon is in balance (i.e. energy consumption is equal to renewable energy production) and is 100% circular (i.e. 100% of its materials and products are recycled or carbon-sequestering materials and the building is designed for disassembly and reuse). Any carbon emissions resulting from the construction, operation, maintenance, and demolition phases of a building will contribute to its overall carbon footprint. Hence, the primary objective is to quantify and minimise these emissions as much as possible.
We promote the use of natural materials whenever feasible, not only because of their low embodied carbon, but also because they promote a healthier indoor environment for building occupants and safer installation processes on site.
Natural materials are those that are readily available or renewable, requiring minimal processing and possessing low embodied energy. They are non-toxic and integrate within a sustainable life cycle, easily reused, recycled or returned to the earth. We prioritize responsibly sourced materials with minimal ecological damage and that support regenerative land stewardship.
hempcrete
timber
clay plaster
cork