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Case studies

Case studies offer insight into implemented technologies, methodologies, research, or practices, and provide an overview of real-life results, outcomes, lessons learned, and best practices.

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Case studies (214)
How 155 orange solar panels vanished into the roof of a historic monastery
Architectural integration at the Paul Van Ostaijen Site, in Belgium

The former Paul Van Ostaijen monastery in Leuven (Belgium) was transformed into a CO₂-neutral complex through the integration of 155 terracotta-colored photovoltaic panels. Seamlessly blended into the historic roof, they preserve the building’s identity while enabling sustainable performance.

Lucia Barin
A 100 kWp array of green PV modules blends with the historic copper roof, setting a new benchmark for heritage-safe solar design.
The Vienna State Opera turns green with integrated photovoltaic modules

A 100 kWp photovoltaic system with 260 green modules is seamlessly integrated into the historic copper roof of the Vienna State Opera. Designed to preserve its Neo-Renaissance identity, the project blends solar technology with heritage, reducing energy demand without altering the iconic skyline.

Lucia Barin
The image shows a refurbished two-storey industrial building with an exposed brick façade and light stone detailing, bearing the inscription “Constructions Mécaniques”. Large metal-framed windows and external shutters coexist with planting on balconies and the roof, while several cars are parked along the street in front.
The GrünboX Case: from abandonment to urban resilience

GrünboX-Vienne transforms a disused industrial building through circular economy principles and sober design, achieving significant CO₂ and water savings while proposing a replicable model for sustainable urban regeneration.

Editorial team
The image shows an accessible rooftop with a large timber terrace, fitted with metal railings and integrated planting beds. At the centre, a person walks past a table and bench, while in the background a contemporary dark metal-clad volume is visible, surrounded by lower-rise residential buildings.
Greenpeace Belgium headquarters

The refurbishment of Greenpeace Belgium’s headquarters illustrates how strategies based on simplicity, reuse, and user-centred design can reduce energy impacts without relying solely on complex technologies, proposing a replicable approach for sustainable office buildings.

Editorial team
The image shows the façade of a building lit by the warm light of sunset, with tree-branch shadows cast across its pale surfaces. In the foreground, an outdoor area with fallen leaves and wooden furniture creates a natural and tranquil atmosphere.
A school that saves energy and gains comfort

A historic school enclave in France is transformed into a bioclimatic benchmark: natural materials, passive ventilation and a design that minimises energy use give shape to a bright, comfortable space connected to its surroundings.

Editorial team
The image shows a modern building with a large glazed façade rising above a sloped base, creating a sense of structural lightness. At dusk, its illuminated interior highlights the clean lines and contemporary design of the complex.
DFHOG redefines energy efficiency in offices

Efficiency, prefabrication and nature come together in the DFHOG Centre to create a building that minimises its energy demand thanks to green roofs and walls, an optimised envelope and a lightweight structural design that maximises natural light and improves indoor comfort.

Editorial team
The image shows a modern building with spacious terraces and glass façades, surrounded by greenery that softens its urban character. In the background, taller residential towers rise above it, creating a contrast between architectural scales.
Zero-Carbon collective housing in Xi’an

Shuiyifang Housing integrates photovoltaic generation, full electrification, and passive strategies to achieve near‑zero energy consumption and reduce operational costs, establishing a residential model with very low energy demand.

Editorial team
Showing 10 of 214 case studies