The days when sustainability in construction was seen as an exotic, idealistic notion for a select few are long gone. Today’s construction industry is permeated with green ideas from the basement to the attic, with one of the newest themes being recycling, which is increasingly sought after by developers and architects alike.
A New Design Parameter
“There’s growing interest in reusable building materials and solutions that either have a long lifespan, can be part of a broader resource cycle, or are used in regenerative design processes. Minimising environmental impact is becoming a design parameter on par with aesthetic requirements,” says district manager Torben Rützou from the ceiling manufacturer DAMPA, which has produced metal design ceilings since the 1950s.
The company has supplied its aluminium Interval Panels for the expansion of Nykredit’s headquarters in Copenhagen, known as The Crystal, as well as for Navitas Park Knowledge Centre and the newly opened Urban Media Space on Aarhus Harbour. All three projects have placed a high priority on sustainability as part of their vision, with considerations such as climate and energy optimisations, as well as broad ‘green’ solutions, being central to the design.
“In terms of sustainability, our ceiling solutions stand out because materials like aluminium and steel can be fully recycled when the building is eventually demolished. Additionally, the long lifespan and durability of the ceilings mean minimal resources are needed for cleaning and maintenance throughout the building’s life,” explains Torben Rützou.
“At the same time, it’s possible to integrate various functions into the ceiling solutions, contributing to the building’s overall green profile. For example, LED lighting can be incorporated, creating a seamless connection between the ceiling and the light fixtures. Climate control and energy-saving climate regulation can also be integrated, along with easy access to the installations above the ceiling.”
There’s also a green aspect in reducing daily operating costs, leading to economic savings.
Aesthetics Must Keep Up
Although the focus on the recyclability of building materials and solutions has gained ground recently, aesthetics remains the decisive parameter, says Torben Rützou.
He explains that the flexibility of the solutions is important when balancing the many building requirements, ensuring that all considerations come together harmoniously.
“The Interval Panels come in various dimensions, and the developer and architect can also choose the desired spacing between the panels. This allows for a fully customised ceiling, with, for example, a linear, curved, or wave pattern that follows the room’s layout, whether it is square or round.”
“Depending on the chosen panel spacing, we can integrate all or part of the technical installations above the ceiling, creating a completely uniform ceiling surface.”
For The Crystal, DAMPA supplied Interval Panels in the dimensions 40x30x40 in a completely closed construction, with acoustic mineral wool installed above the panels. The Interval Panels at Urban Media Space were made in an open construction, allowing the sprinkler system to be placed above the panels.
