The newly built climate-friendly children’s centre, Børnehuset Skovly, combines functionality, aesthetics and sustainability
Today, it’s no longer an either-or question. One does not necessarily exclude the other. Børnehuset Skovly shows that you can combine aesthetics, functionality and sustainability – a modern and environmentally friendly children’s centre that meets high demands for design and efficiency without compromising the well-being of the children.
A holistic approach to sustainability
Skovly is all about green — from solar panels on the roof to recycled wood in the building. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to blend with the natural surroundings. The colors and materials are chosen to harmonize with the environment, using green tones for doors, tiles, and floors that contrast with the earthy colors of other surfaces. It is a children’s universe that prioritises sustainability without compromising the quality of indoor climate, light or atmosphere for both children and staff.
Long-term decisions
The building draws on old traditions of strong, durable materials, including the extensive use of wood—a sustainable choice that is consistent throughout the construction. The large roof surfaces with large overhangs protect the building, provide natural shading, and ensure efficient operation and longevity. While it might have been possible to further minimize material use and eliminate the large overhangs, the overhangs demonstrate the importance of long-term decisions and a holistic approach to sustainability. The focus is not just on dry numbers, but also on common sense.
Efficiency, aesthetics and a sustainable solar solution
An essential part of Børnehuset Skovly’s sustainable profile is the thin solar panels on the Easy-Click steel roof from Areco.
The choice of solar panels was based on extensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) calculations, which documented that the flexible lightweight panels had much lower CO2 emissions compared to traditional crystalline solar panels. With high efficiency and an energy payback time (EPBT) of just one year, the solar solution contributed positively to the building’s overall sustainability goals. At the same time, it was essential to ensure that the institution’s operating costs remained low over time, which the solar solution contributes to through high productivity and long lifetime.
These solar panels are 10-20% more efficient than traditional crystalline panels. This improved performance is due to their absorption coefficient and ability to utilise a wider spectrum of sunlight. This means that the panels start generating electricity earlier in the day and continue to produce energy well into the evening. At the same time, they are significantly more resistant to shade and temperature variations, ensuring stable performance throughout the day. Even in 10% shade, performance is only reduced by 10-20%, while crystalline panels often experience a reduction of 60-80%. This significant advantage is particularly beneficial in forested areas where shading can be a challenge.
Although it was Drias Consulting Engineers who incorporated the solar solution into the project, the architects from Pluskontoret Arkitekter are very positive about the result.
“Solar cells are often a disturbing element and rarely add anything good to a building. But Green Energy’s solar cells play on the slimness that we have worked with in the architecture. The thin panels integrate discreetly into the roof surface and contribute to a modern, clean look without disturbing the overall aesthetic,” says Daniel Kjær Olsen, architect MAA and DGNB consultant at Pluskontoret Arkitekter, and adds, “This is a long-awaited solution.”
Future children’s centres
With Børnehuset Skovly in Sdr. Omme, architects, engineers and suppliers have created a children’s centre that combines functionality, aesthetics and sustainability for the benefit of both the environment and future generations.
“Being part of a project that combines long-term thinking with sustainable solutions is a point of pride for us. Our solar panels not only enhance the building’s aesthetics but also improve LCA calculations,” says Jens Sørensen, Head of Construction at Green Energy.
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