Nedre Sem låve, Asker

In addition to being one of the first to test FutureBuilt’s circularity index, the new barn at Nedre Sem has also been a pilot for FutureBuilt’s criteria for plastic in buildings, aiming for minimal plastic usage. The construction site was nearly 90% emission-free, and the building aims for near-zero-energy standards, achieved through a well-insulated building envelope, geothermal energy wells, and solar panels on the roof. Structural elements are made of solid wood, and the basement consists of extremely low-carbon concrete with recycled concrete as aggregate.

Nedre Sem barn is innovative through the sum of the project’s exemplary characteristics. The project aimed for 50% circularity through the reuse and redesign of materials from the existing barn and other buildings, as well as designing for the reuse of building components in the future. There has also been a goal of using 100% reused materials in the outdoor areas.

Nedre Sem Barn is also included as a pilot in the EU's Circular Cities and Regions Initiative.

The developer, Asker municipality, has aimed to significantly increase local biodiversity. During the construction phase, there was a strong focus on preserving the landscape conservation area in the best possible way. Below are the main measures summarized:

• Mapping of biodiversity and invasive species

• The barn is located on previously developed land

• Original vegetable and berry gardens are being rebuilt

• Action plan ensures control of invasive species

• Local seeds/plants collected for revegetation

• Topsoil from the site reused

• Surrounding trees were protected with construction fences during the construction period

• A landscape plan was developed, including at least 30% vegetated areas, natural meadows, and planting areas with at least 30 species of high value for local biodiversity.

• A working group was established to provide input for garden planning, ensuring that cultural heritage and history from the area were well preserved

• Local production of compost for use in cultivation on-site

• Rainwater is collected locally for use in irrigation

• A management plan ensures long-term preservation of biodiversity

Source: Greenbuilt.no

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