One Helix, a laboratory building in Amsterdam designed by UNS for AstraZeneca, cuts its carbon footprint by at least half compared to similar Dutch buildings. It uses low-carbon concrete and steel, a demountable structure, and recycled urban materials. The building achieves BREEAM Outstanding and Nearly Zero-Energy Building standards. Key features include facade-integrated solar panels, high-efficiency ventilation with energy recovery, heat exchange systems, underground thermal storage, and a green roof for biodiversity and heat island reduction. Solar shading elements made from basalt fiber were calibrated for transparency and wind stability. The project prioritizes whole-life carbon management and flexibility for future reuse.
