Low2No – A new model of sustainable construction and design

We are working towards developing an innovative city block and concept complying with sustainable development. ‘Low2No’ is abbreviated from the words ‘from low carbon to no carbon’. 

Low2No development work is characterised by low-energy and low-carbon design and construction, resulting in a sustainable built-up environment. The solutions under development will serve as benchmarks both in Finland and internationally.

The pivotal principles guiding construction and development of functions are inspiring comprehensive design, social innovations, engagement with the environment, economic vitality, and repeatability. Along with low carbon emissions and energy efficiency, the key concept is enabling consumer habits that increase people’s wellbeing and conserve the environment.

The block in Jätkäsaari, comprising 22,000 floor square meters, is the first site where the Low2No model is being developed and defined in practice. Ambitious targets have been set for the energy efficiency of the block. SRV and VVO are having about 200 apartments built in the block and Sitra has commissioned new offices. More than half the dwellings will be owner-occupied, some of them financed by Hitas. The rest of the apartments will be let by VVO. A number of neighbourhood services are planned for the block in accordance with the Low2No principle.

Sitra and the City of Helsinki organised an international design competition for sustainable construction in 2009. The winner was the international working group ARUP–Sauerbruch Hutton–Experientia.  The team is partnered by the leading Finnish design companies SARC, Vahanen and Granlund. The construction of the block is planned to start early in 2012 and to be completed around the turn of 2013-2014.

More information

Marco Steinberg
Director, Strategic Design
Sitra
Tel. +358 (0)40 482 7508
marco.steinberg@sitra.fi