A collection of materials that have either been shortlisted or successfully used in projects by Buro Happold.
In the evolving world of construction, finding materials that align with efficiency, resilience, and environmental considerations is becoming more crucial. The "Emerging Materials" collection highlights innovative solutions from forward-thinking manufacturers that are driving change within the industry. These materials offer a combination of advanced properties, aesthetic flexibility, and a lower impact on the environment. Below, we explore the contributions of selected manufacturers featured in this collection.
Find the full collection here: "Emerging Materials" on revalu
BC Materials excels in transforming locally sourced resources into practical and aesthetically pleasing building solutions. Their products, such as the Compressed Block 90/140/190 and the Rammed Earth Mix Red/Grey/Cream, offer natural solutions for walling and cladding. These materials stand out for their potential durability and compatibility with traditional and modern designs.
Additionally, the Clay Paint coloured - cream/grey/brown/red and Clay Plaster coloured - cream/grey/brown/red provide excellent finishing options that regulate humidity, improving indoor air quality. BC Materials’ Earth Mortar/Earth Adhesive Mortar and Moulded Block - Ochre/Cream/Brown further expand the possibilities of clay-based construction, offering flexibility in application.
COMU Labs introduces MycoWood, an innovative material combining mycelium with natural fibres. With a GWP of 6.200 per square metre, MycoWood contributes to lower-carbon material choices while adding a unique organic texture that makes it suitable for modern designs with biophilic elements.
Dinesen continues to redefine wood-based solutions with products such as Pine 35mm, Layers Douglas 19mm, and Douglas 28mm (Untreated). These materials demonstrate outstanding GWP performance, ranging from -4.550 to -15.375 per square metre, contributing significantly to carbon sequestration in building projects.
Moreover, the net fresh water usage for Dinesen products is between 1.03 and 6.49 litres per square metre, while the energy mix reaches up to 85.53%, reflecting its low-impact manufacturing processes. The wide variety of finishes and wood types, including Layers Oak 19mm, Oak 22mm, and Ash 22mm, ensures aesthetic and structural versatility.
Ecolocked’s eLM Zero represents a bold step in carbon-sequestering material innovation. Although detailed metrics are unavailable, this product demonstrates the potential of bio-based solutions to lock carbon while delivering functional and design-oriented applications.
Ecoup’s Ekovilla X5 Air Barrier Membrane provides exceptional insulation performance while contributing to energy efficiency. With a GWP of -5.990 per square metre, a net fresh water use of 1.57 litres, and an energy mix of 84.77%, this material highlights the importance of reducing environmental impact in building practices.
HERCAL ZERO SL’s H-ZERO Block is an innovative lightweight aggregate for construction. With a GWP of 176.000 per cubic metre, a net fresh water use of 5.53 litres, and an energy mix of 6.52%, this product provides strength and sustainability for various building applications.
Leca’s Leca Sportsfiller is a lightweight aggregate designed for energy-efficient construction. With a GWP of -115.000 per cubic metre, net fresh water use of 2.42 litres, and an energy mix of 55.35%, this product delivers structural stability with reduced environmental impact.
Modulina’s Straw Panels represent an eco-conscious choice for cladding and insulation. These panels showcase the potential of renewable materials to reduce environmental footprints, although detailed environmental metrics are currently unavailable.
Mykor’s MykoFoam is a pioneering bio-based insulation material with exceptional thermal and acoustic properties. While specific environmental metrics are unavailable, its composition highlights the benefits of using renewable materials to enhance building performance.
Pretty Plastic’s range of façade tiles, including the First One facade tile from 100% rPVC, achieves a GWP of 27.841 per square metre. With net fresh water use as low as 0.48 litres per square metre and an energy mix of 6.60%, these products exemplify how recycled plastics can find a new life in construction. Their durable and aesthetically appealing tiles provide an eco-conscious alternative for exterior cladding.
SAPPA's acoustic panels are designed to enhance indoor soundscapes while prioritising renewable materials. Though specific environmental data is unavailable, these panels reflect a commitment to circular practices and improved indoor environments.
The "Emerging Materials" collection showcases how advanced building materials can deliver on performance while considering resource use and environmental impacts. From clay-based mortars and bio-based innovations to carbon-sequestering composites and recycled plastic façades, these materials represent a future-ready approach to construction.
Explore the full range of products in the "Emerging Materials" collection on revalu and discover materials that align with your project’s performance and environmental priorities.
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