Småland, Sweden – A modern headquarters for the Stommen Group, a family-owned Swedish investment company, is redefining sustainable building practices. The project, nestled in the heart of the Småland forests, seamlessly integrates architecture, long-term vision, and environmental responsibility, with a particular focus on its innovative roof design. The building’s roof isn’t merely a protective layer, but a key component of its overall sustainability strategy, combining efficiency, durability, and safety. This commitment to sustainable construction is increasingly important as companies like Stommen Group navigate a changing economic landscape and growing environmental concerns.
The roof features two complementary, yet technically complex, systems: a sedum garden – utilizing hardy succulent plants – and a photovoltaic installation. These systems require distinct waterproofing solutions, leading Stommen Group to select specialized membranes from Derbigum. The choice reflects a growing trend in the construction industry towards integrated green infrastructure and renewable energy sources. Understanding the nuances of Stommen Group’s investment philosophy is key to understanding their commitment to long-term, sustainable projects.
Dual Protection: Sedum and Solar
To address the differing needs of the sedum garden and the photovoltaic panels, the project team opted for two specific Derbigum membranes: Derbigum SP AR beneath the green roof and Derbigum SP FR under the solar array. Derbigum SP AR, an anti-root membrane, is designed to resist root penetration thanks to specialized agents integrated into its composition. This is crucial for green roofs and gardens, ensuring the long-term protection of the building structure. The durability of the waterproofing layer is paramount in these environments.
Beneath the photovoltaic installation, Derbigum SP FR, a membrane characterized by high fire resistance, was utilized. This product is classified BROOF (t1, t2, t3), a designation becoming increasingly central to the design of roofs with solar panels. The presence of solar panels introduces new fire risk scenarios, making certified and compliant systems essential for safety. According to Franco Villa, Country Manager of Derbigum Italia, “When it comes to photovoltaics on roofs, it’s no longer enough to just suppose in terms of energy production. Fire safety and the durability of the waterproofing system are decisive aspects.”
Longevity and Circularity in Construction
A significant advantage of the Derbigum system is its longevity. The membranes boast a proven service life of at least 50 years, as verified by external certification bodies like the BBA, exceeding the average lifespan of photovoltaic systems. This extended lifespan means the waterproofing layer can outlast the solar panels, minimizing the need for disruptive and costly replacements. This reduces downtime, lowers economic and environmental impact, and contributes to a more sustainable lifecycle for the entire installation.
The project also demonstrates a commitment to circular economy principles. The membranes are manufactured using 100% renewable energy and are fully recyclable. At the end of their life, the material can be recovered and reused in the production of new membranes, reducing construction waste. This aligns with the goals of the European Green Deal and the Italian CAM (Commitment for Climate), emphasizing sustainable material choices.
Stommen Group’s Broader Strategy
The choice of Derbigum membranes is part of a larger trend for Stommen Group, which invests in businesses with strong growth potential. As the group expanded through acquisitions, they recognized the need for a unified approach to data and technology, recently partnering with Columbus to consolidate their technology stack using Microsoft Dynamics 365, Azure, and Power BI. This initiative aims to provide a clearer view of performance and more reliable data for financial and sales decision-making.
The new headquarters building, although, represents a tangible expression of the group’s values. It’s a space designed for the well-being of people and the reduction of environmental impact, where even seemingly invisible elements like the roof play a crucial role. The integration of green technology, fire safety, and long-term durability showcases a holistic approach to sustainable building.
The Stommen Group project exemplifies how sustainable building practices are evolving beyond simple energy efficiency. It’s about creating resilient, long-lasting structures that minimize environmental impact and prioritize safety. The use of Derbigum membranes, with their proven durability and recyclability, is a key component of this approach.
Looking ahead, Stommen Group will continue to focus on integrating sustainability into its investment portfolio and operations. The company has not announced any specific future building projects, but their commitment to environmentally responsible practices suggests that future developments will likely follow a similar model.
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