Sustainable Building Planning and Lived Sustainability
Expert knowledge for planned and practiced sustainability – in construction projects and everyday office operations.
Sustainability in Building Planning
As a general planner, we approach buildings holistically – from the initial idea to successful operation.
Lorenz Consult sets standards in sustainability through innovative building design, environmentally friendly construction, and responsible project implementation. In this way, we develop forward-looking solutions that combine ecological and economic aspects. With a strong focus on resource conservation and energy efficiency, we create projects that provide long-term benefits for both the environment and society.
Sound expertise for climate-resilient buildings
Thanks to the in-depth expertise of our specially trained and certified professionals – holding, among others, qualifications from the ÖGNI (Austrian Sustainable Building Council, the counterpart to Germany’s DGNB) as well as relevant certifications – we deliver future-ready buildings of high ecological and economic quality combined with sustainable architecture.
Through re-use strategies, brownfield development, BIM-supported material transparency, and life-cycle assessments, we create climate-resilient buildings and green buildings that not only meet today’s requirements but also remain viable in the long term, can be certified according to recognized sustainability standards, and comply with the specifications of the Federal Sustainability Authority.
In doing so, we combine technical excellence with responsibility toward the environment, resources, and people, consistently aligning our work with applicable regulatory and sustainability-related frameworks.
Planning sustainably means securing the future.
Our key aspects for sustainable building planning
Ecological evaluation of all building components across their entire life cycle
Transparent presentation of total costs over the period of use
Determination of the CO₂ impact of individual components and structures
Systematic repurposing of existing spaces and buildings
New construction and densification on previously used sites and existing infrastructure
Sustainability within the company
As a company, we live sustainability – and this commitment is rewarded.
Lorenz Consult not only pursues sustainable building planning across all projects but also consistently integrates sustainability into its own corporate practices. In our annual sustainability report, we document our sustainability goals and their progress in a transparent and comprehensible manner.
In addition, we implement internal measures for climate protection and respectful social interaction. These include energy-efficient office structures, mindful use of resources, and initiatives that promote team culture and employee well-being.
This commitment is confirmed by our EcoVadis certification and underscores our ambition to take responsibility for the environment, society, and economic viability.
We also collaborate with network partners who share and meet our sustainability standards.
Sustainably planned projects: 20+
Certified buildings: 2+
Development, planning, and realization of projects of all sizes and types.
FAQ
What does sustainable building planning mean in the construction industry?
Sustainable building planning – also referred to as sustainable construction – is a holistic approach that considers ecological, economic, and social aspects throughout the entire life cycle of a building project, resulting in green buildings. This includes resource-efficient planning and construction, the minimization of environmental impacts, and a focus on long-term viability. In sustainable architecture, this is achieved, among other things, through energy efficiency, intelligent use of materials and space, social responsibility, and economic efficiency.
What are the benefits of sustainable construction?
Sustainable construction offers numerous advantages: natural resources and environments are conserved, and waste is reduced. Users of climate-resilient or green buildings – such as employees, patients, or visitors – benefit from a healthy indoor climate, high levels of comfort, and durable materials. In addition, operating costs can decrease while the long-term value of the building increases.
Key benefits of sustainable construction at a glance:
- Resource and environmental protection: Conservation of materials and minimization of waste
- Healthy indoor climate: For employees, patients, and visitors
- High comfort and durability: Robust, sustainable materials
- Economic efficiency: Reduced operating costs and long-term value appreciation
What is the difference between brownfield and greenfield?
In contrast to greenfield projects on undeveloped land, brownfield development focuses on reusing existing structures, converting them, or replacing them with new buildings on already developed sites.
What is the difference between life cycle assessment and life cycle costs?
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of a building throughout its entire life cycle, while Life Cycle Costs (LCC) capture the total costs incurred over the same period in a comprehensive manner.
What is DGNB/ÖGNI?
DGNB stands for the German Sustainable Building Council certification system used to evaluate sustainable buildings. The corresponding Austrian counterpart is represented by ÖGNI (Austrian Sustainable Building Council).
DGNB/ÖGNI certification considers multiple dimensions of sustainable construction, including ecological, economic, sociocultural, technical, and process quality, as well as the site itself.