Living places a new way of thinking about building
The Living Places project in Denmark demonstrates that it is already possible to construct homes that significantly reduce carbon emissions while also enhancing everyday health and comfort. Led by VELUX, EFFEKT and Artelia, the initiative addressed two major problems simultaneously: the high climate impact of buildings and the poor indoor conditions that many modern homes still experience. By replacing carbon-intensive materials with timber, reducing home size and designing around natural light, airflow and shading, the team created houses that cut lifecycle emissions by roughly two-thirds compared to standard construction. Extensive simulations helped refine everything from window placement to daylight exposure, proving that low-carbon design does not require sacrificing comfort.
Real-world testing confirmed the results when nearly 100 people lived in the homes during summer conditions. Guests consistently reported high comfort, fresh air, stable temperatures and a strong sense of well-being, all achieved without air conditioning. Natural materials, abundant daylight and smart ventilation made the spaces feel healthier and more emotionally satisfying, strengthening people’s connection to their homes. The experiment demonstrates that climate-friendly housing is not a future concept but a present-day solution that can be built at market cost, offering a clear model for addressing both the housing shortage and the climate crisis with existing knowledge and materials.
