Biodiversity under threat?

Land use, emissions, pollution and the depletion of raw materials are at the root of the biodiversity crisis we are gradually getting into. However, biodiversity offers not insignificant guarantees of a liveable world. Healthy ecosystems, for instance, provide food production, disease and pest suppression, heat and drought control and air quality.

The construction sector also has a role to play in contributing to a resilient living environment. By cleverly integrating buildings into local ecological networks, they can add value instead of being a barrier for flora and fauna.

Nature in the city is crucial for a liveable environment. Increasing urbanisation puts pressure on living space for plants and animals. Preserving and strengthening ecological structures are therefore essential. Nature-inclusive development counteracts fragmentation and makes the local nature network more robust and resilient.

We are committed to integrating biodiversity into every project.

Natural connection with your building

Nature-inclusive design embraces and enhances the natural environment in which the building will be located. As a designer, you have a part to play in respecting and even encouraging biodiversity around your building. This does not mean that you no longer recognise yourself in your design, nor that it doubles in cost. It does mean that you will not make peace with a bird box against your facade.

Fear not, nature-inclusive building need not be an extra task. We make sure it is a logical, integrated design approach with lasting added value for people and nature.

Algemene binnenmaat inbouwsteen gierzwaluw of huismus

Step by step

Nature-inclusive building requires an integral approach, where ecological added value is included in the design and construction process from the start. We are eager to help you with this. Our specialists develop a customised design for your building and guide you step by step through all phases of the building process.

As far as we are concerned, this starts with creating support among all parties involved. The sooner you involve us in your project, the better informed you will be, you will be able to shape your vision and we will be able to guide the client together.

Geopunt Vlaanderen kaart voor omgevingsscan

Through all stages

After a preliminary survey of the site and its surroundings, you will receive an initial advisory report. Nature-inclusive measures are integrated into the preliminary design. In the final design, we draw them in concretely.

In the execution design, we look at suitable materials, planting and protection plans. During site preparation and execution, we ensure correct supervision and quality control and protection of facilities. Upon completion, a management and monitoring plan follows and we are ready to sensitise residents and users.

Bouwdetail inbouwsteen gierzwaluw van Raf De Preter

Impact

Our knowledge of nature-inclusive construction is anchored in building technology. Our interventions are translated into ready-to-implement details and solutions. So rest assured, with us you are in the clear.

Green Deal Parkings

Extreme rainfall and low groundwater tables will become more common in the future. With rainwater buffering, infiltration and reuse, buildings are better armed against periods of excess and scarcity. That is why we are passionate in evaluating rainwater treatment and grey and black water drainage systems.

Green Deal Natuurinclusieve Parekings

Convenant Green Deal

Green Deal16 Natuurinclusieve Parkeerterreinen (9.41 MB)

Our specialist

From Team Sustainability, Energy & Comfort (1)

ir. Jente De Schepper

Sustainability consultant

E-mail |

Our colleague Jente De Schepper became nature-inclusive building consultant

25.03.2025

Nature-inclusive building as a basic principle

References

Antwerp Collection Centre

Antwerp

The architectural team HUB and Office Winhov is taking us on as sustainability, energy and building physics consultant.

Lake Side residential area

Brussels

As overarching executive and coordinating architect, we are building a sustainable residential district in the heart of Brussels with five design architects.

Other types of advice sustainable & circular building

Integral sustainability

We give you informed advice for a sustainable world.

More about Integral sustainability

Environmental impact materials

A life cycle assessment calculates the total environmental impact of your construction project. You were already this far. We go one step further in your search for optimisations.

More about Environmental impact materials

Circular building

From demolition to disassembly. From welding and gluing to nailing and screwing. Our recycling specialists will be happy to guide you through the transition from linear to circular.

More about Circular building