Tag: netherlands

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]At Sapphire Balconies, we’re passionate about innovation and sustainability. Our balcony solutions are designed to deliver quality and efficiency, streamlining balcony projects.

Our ongoing work at Vienna House in Vancouver is witnessing the integration of Sapphire’s prefabricated balconies into the project in Canada, contributing to the project’s efficiency goals. Prefab balconies, still making their way into Vancouver, were selected owing to their:

• safety

• ease of installation

• reduced impact on the construction schedule.

What benefits do our prefabricated balconies offer the development?

Vienna House is an affordable, highly sustainable housing project in Vancouver which aims to showcase innovative designs and processes, including prefabricated building components and off-site manufacturing.

We’re pleased to be supplying prefabricated balconies to the development, supporting the vision of developer BC Housing to become an example for other affordable housing projects across Vancouver.

1. High Quality: Manufactured and assembled in the controlled conditions of the factory line, prefabricated balconies go through strict quality checks, ensuring a high level of quality and a lower risk of error.
2. Thermal Efficiency: Our balconies are thermally broken as thermal breaks are already built into the balcony anchor points, minimising heat loss. Moreover, the aluminum construction of our balconies makes them lightweight, reducing the number of extra brackets required to connect to the building structure.
3. Improved Project Speed: By requiring fewer on-site trades, prefabricated balconies significantly reduce project delays and labour time.
4. No On-Site Storage Required: Pre-finished balconies are delivered to the site ready for installation – a major benefit for developments in busy locations that have limited storage space.
5. Faster Installation Time: Our balconies are pre-finished and delivered to the site ready to be installed, reducing balcony installation and project time.

“The Sapphire balconies check a lot of boxes on the goals in the Vienna House project charter. They are durable and support resilience by providing passive shading, and they improve quality of life for residents.” – John Wall, principal and co-founder of Public Architecture.

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See how Sapphire has excelled with prefabricated balconies in the past at Transport House.

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Prefabricated Balconies in Canada: How do Sapphire’s balconies maximize thermal efficiency?

Considering how disruptive low temperatures and extreme weather can be across Canada, the thermal performance of buildings should be considered from concept to completion.

Based on the climate conditions across Canada, building codes and region-specific standards like the Toronto Green Standard should be met.

1. The difference between a balcony by Sapphire and a traditional concrete slab is that Sapphire includes a thermal break in the balcony at the design stage.
2. Sapphire maximizes thermal efficiency whilst maintaining a rigid structure within the balconies by incorporating thermal breaks in tactical locations – these can be located between the floors and ceilings of apartments, acting as an extra layer of insulation around the balcony arms.
3. The insulation materials we use to form the thermal break help insulate the small area in question. Architects should consider using high-quality insulation for floors and ceilings, too.

How are Prefabricated Balconies contributing to sustainability at Vienna House?

With the aim to lower the development’s carbon emissions and energy consumption, Vienna House is being designed using sustainable practices and components. From prefabricated and off-site manufacturing to innovative designs, Vienna House will showcase various sustainable construction examples.

1. Easy to Transport: Our aluminum Cassette® balcony decks are much lighter than a concrete alternative, making them more efficient to transport and install, reducing transport emissions. The balcony materials have a 19% reduction in embodied carbon when compared with concrete balconies.
2. Enhanced Building Efficiency: Prefabricated balconies need only a couple of small connections to secure them in place, keeping the thermal barrier of the building intact. This reduces the risk of cold bridging and makes the building energy-efficient for occupants.
3. Recyclable: Thanks to the Glide-On technology, balconies can be easily removed at the end of their lifespan, then disassembled and sent for recycling.

At Sapphire, we are dedicated to innovating in construction for the specific requirements of clients and projects. We work with clients to deliver safe and sustainable balconies for residents. If you have a project in mind and wish to discuss it, start a conversation about Prefabricated Balconies in Canada with us: www.balconies.global/contact-us/

Discover how our Prefabricated Balconies in Canada have saved on carbon emissions, time, and money in our case studies here.[/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”][vc_column][sapphire_contentLink order=”Image left / content right” image=”13193″ heading=”Discover Sapphire’s Next Generation Balcony” button_text=”Discover” button_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flocalhost%2Fbalconies%2Four-product%2Fthe-next-generation-balcony%2F|title:The%20Next%20Generation%20Balcony”]The Next Generation Balcony is a huge step forward for the construction market[/sapphire_contentLink][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html css=””]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row width=”70″ background_image=””][vc_column][sapphire_textBlock]As the urgency of climate change intensifies, the built environment is becoming a crucial battleground in the fight for a low-carbon future. In the Netherlands, industry leaders are stepping up with bold commitments like the Paris Proof initiative, driving real, measurable reductions in energy use and CO₂ emissions. This aligns with the ambitious targets of the Paris Agreement. By adopting science-based targets and transparent practices, organisations are not just meeting regulatory expectations but leading the way towards a more sustainable future.

In this blog post, we are taking a closer look at the Paris Proof Commitment by Dutch businesses and how Sapphire Balconies is committed to science-based targets such that it could significantly assist the built industry in achieving sustainability goals.

What is the Paris Proof Commitment in the Netherlands?

The Paris Proof Commitment is a groundbreaking Dutch initiative where 125 market players have pledged to reduce energy consumption in the built environment by two-thirds. This ambitious target is directly aligned with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Unlike traditional approaches that focus on theoretical energy performance, the Paris Proof initiative emphasises actual energy use, making climate goals more achievable and measurable.

Dutch businesses committing to the Paris Proof are not only transforming their operations but also influencing the broader industry. By signing this commitment, organisations agree to adhere to a structured approach that includes endorsing the Paris Proof ambition, being transparent about their energy use and CO₂ emissions, creating actionable roadmaps, and promoting these standards within their networks.

This initiative is part of a larger global movement, the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment, which aims to achieve zero carbon emissions across the entire building sector by 2050. Through radical renovations, precise energy monitoring, and a focus on real-world results, the Paris Proof Commitment is driving significant progress towards a more sustainable built environment in the Netherlands.

The Paris Proof Commitment goes beyond regulatory compliance; it represents a leadership stance. Dutch businesses are setting a powerful example for the global industry by tackling potential obstacles and collaborating effectively. Sapphire Balconies is proud to contribute to sustainability in the built sector and position itself as the suitable choice for sustainability-driven businesses.

Commitment to Science-Based Targets at Sapphire Balconies

At Sapphire Balconies, our dedication to sustainability is both comprehensive and strategic, anchored in science-based targets and innovative design. We understand that effectively addressing climate change requires more than regulatory compliance – it demands a bold, data-driven approach to significantly reducing embodied carbon and energy consumption.

How Do Science-Based Targets Power Sustainability Goals for Sapphire?

Science-based targets form the bedrock of our Vision 2030, which details our ambitious strategy for transforming the built environment. By aligning our sustainability goals with the latest climate science and industry standards, we ensure that our efforts are impactful and transparent. This approach supports our regulatory obligations and drives meaningful progress in reducing our carbon footprint.

How Does Sapphire Incorporate Sustainability in Its Work?

We Design Balconies to Improve Energy Efficiency  

We meticulously design our balconies with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency, which is essential for lowering overall building energy consumption. By employing advanced materials and innovative design techniques, our balconies help regulate building temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. This results in lower energy usage and reduced embodied carbon, contributing to a more sustainable built environment.

We Integrate Circular Economy Principles 

We are at the forefront of incorporating circular economy principles into our balcony designs. This approach focuses on the reuse and recycling of materials, minimising waste and extending the life cycle of our products. By designing balconies that can be easily disassembled and repurposed, we not only lessen environmental impact but also enhance resource efficiency. This commitment ensures that our balconies surpass current sustainability standards.

We Use Innovative Materials and Practices 

Our commitment to sustainability is a testament to our innovative spirit. From selecting eco-friendly materials to optimising our manufacturing processes, we make sure that every aspect of our balcony production is geared towards minimising environmental impact. Our design solutions are crafted to improve energy performance and positively contribute to the overall sustainability of building projects.

We invite you to learn more about our unwavering dedication to sustainability and our vision for an eco-friendly future at Sapphire: /knowledge/sustainability/. [/sapphire_textBlock][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row width=”70″ background_image=”” el_id=”” el_class=”” css=””][vc_column][vc_raw_html css=””]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]