Biophilic&NearlyZero EnergyBuildings (NZEBs)inCrete.
OurPhilosophyandProcessinSustainableArchitectureandDesign
AMessageFromOurTeam
Dear Reader,
Now more than ever, our clients—both individuals and private companies— demand transparency and the highest ethical standards in environmental design and construction. What we have learned so far: Performance outweighs promise. Honesty and transparency are the true metrics that matter most.
At ARENCOS, we take our role seriously as one of Crete’s leading firms in sustainable architecture, biophilic design, passive house construction, and wellbeing. Our journey has been one of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and value creation. Over the years, we have achieved significant milestones—earning certifications from sustainable organizations, implementing a Green Operations and Waste Management Plan, and receiving accolades for being Crete’s most sustainable firm. Yet, we recognize that sustainability is an evolving commitment, and we are dedicated to advancing our efforts.
This report offers a transparent overview of our 2024 performance in biophilic design and our nearly-net zero philosophy. For the first time, we conducted a rigorous data collection process aligned with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards an internationally recognized framework for assessing economic, environmental, and social impact. By adhering to these standards, we enhance accountability and reinforce our commitment to sustainable development. The insights gained from this process are guiding us to refine our strategies, improve efficiency, and set even higher benchmarks for sustainability.
We publish this report because we believe in doing the right thing and leading by example. Whether it’s decarbonizing construction operations, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation, ensuring a safe and inclusive workplace, or helping our clients implement sustainable practices—our work is driven by purpose. We hope this report inspires others to become agents of change, shaping a more sustainable future in Crete together.
ARENCOSArchitecturalandEngineeringTeam
OURVISION
Forus,architectureandengineeringarenotjust conceptsofacertainstyleorform,butmore importantly,itistheadaptabilitytothelocal contextandtradition,itssociallife,anditsusers.
WhoWeAre
Since2000,we’vebeenonamissiontodesignandcreate beautifulplacesthatinspire,respectconnectand restoreourlocalecosystemandinstillasenseof belonging.Astheworldfacesinterconnected ecologicalandsocialchallenges,itisessentialthatwe alignourbusinessoperationsandpracticeswith thesecoreprinciples.
MakingaPositiveImpact
ARENCOSisoneofthefewarchitecturalandengineeringfirmsinGreececonductingindependentand collaborativeresearchwithindustryorganizationsandacademia.Ourgroundbreakingworkspanslocal materialsresearch,recyclabilityinnovations,circulareconomystrategies,andconstructionfootprint benchmarking—allofwhichhavesignificantlyadvancedsustainabilitywithinthedesignandconstruction profession.
Notably,ourworkonbio-basedmaterialsforconstruction,particularlyfocusingontheuseoflocalCretan stoneandsustainabletimber,hasdemonstratedpracticalapplicationsinbothhealth-consciousdesignand environmentalimpactreduction.Additionally,ourresearchintozero-wasteconstructionmethodshasset newbenchmarksforminimizingconstructiondebrisandoptimizingresourceuse.
OurcommitmenttodiversifyingandadvancingthefieldisexemplifiedbyInconde,astate-of-the-artplatform wedevelopedtosharelessonslearnedfromourextensiveworkonconstructionprojectsacrossCreteand Greece.Thisplatformnotonlydocumentsourexperiencesbutalsofacilitateslong-termpartnershipswith third-partycontractors,consultants,andconstructionspecialists.Furtherstrengtheningourroleinshaping thefutureoftheindustry,wecontinuetobuildourscholarshipprogramanduniversitycollaborations, enablingthenextgenerationofarchitectsandengineerstobuildonoursustainablevision.
Weareproudtosupport,sponsor,andactivelyparticipateinvariousinitiatives,programs,andorganizations dedicatedtopromotinghealth,sustainability,anddiversity.Hereareafewexamples:
✓ HellenicPassiveHouseInstitute(HPHI)–Advancingpassivehousedesignand energy-efficientbuildingsacrossGreece.
✓ GreekGreenBuildingCouncil(GGBC)–Supportingsustainablearchitecture throughgreenbuildingcertificationsandbestpractices.
✓ ChaniaGreenCityInitiative–Promotingeco-consciousurbandevelopmentand sustainableconstructioninChania.
✓ CretanInstituteofEnergy&Sustainability–Encouragingresearchandinnovation inrenewableenergyandsustainablebuildingsolutions.
✓ MediterraneanInstituteforNatureandAnthropos(MedINA)–Workingtowards biodiversityconservationandsustainablelandmanagementinGreece.
✓ HellenicDiversity&InclusionCharter–Fosteringequalopportunitiesand inclusivitywithinGreekbusinessesandorganizations.
OURFIRMATAGLANCE
IndustryFocus:
· Architecture,Engineering,and SustainableDesign
KeyAchievements:
· Groundbreakingresearchonlocal materialsandrecyclability
· ImplementedGreenOperationsand WasteManagementPlan
· RecognizedasCrete’smost sustainablefirm
SustainabilityStandards:
· AdherestoGlobalReporting Initiative(GRI)fortransparent sustainabilityreporting
· ActivelyinvolvedintheGreek GreenBuildingCouncilandHellenic PassiveHouseInstitute
Diversity&Inclusion:
· Activeparticipationininitiatives supportingdiversityandinclusive practicesinconstruction
· Strongcommitmenttoethical businesspractices
Specialties:
· BiophilicDesign
· Net-ZeroBuildings
· PassiveHouseConstruction
· CircularEconomyinConstruction
· SustainableArchitecture
ARENCOS:OurPhilosophy
Werecognizethattheefficientuseofnatural resources—suchasenergy,water,andmaterials—is essentialfortheeffectivenessofourservicesand operations.Equallyimportant,weunderstandthatour dailybusinessactivitiesandconstructionprojects haveadirectimpactonthehealthoflocalecosystems, thewell-beingofthecommunitieswedesignfor,and theenvironmentasawhole.
Asatrustedandtransparentbusinesspartner,weare committedtomodelingbestpracticesinleadership, sustainability,andaccountability,ensuringthatour actionsalignwithourresponsibilitytoboththelocal ecosystemsandthepeopleweserve.
AboveandBeyondIndustryStandards
Weapplythelessonslearnedfromour journeytoconstruction,renovation,and remodelingprojects,andusetheinsights gainedfromsetbackstorefineour businesspractices.Indoingso,we ensureourenvironmental,social,and governanceimpactsextendfarbeyond ourorganization,creatinglastingvaluefor bothourindustryandthecommunitieswe serve.
CLIENTS
LocalEcosystem
Togetherwithourclients,partners,and peers,westrivetobuildamore sustainable,andequitableworld.We designingasustainableway,creating lastingimpactineverythingwedo.
People
Ourclientsareattheheartof everythingwedo.Wecollaboratewith themtocreatesustainable,thoughtful, andimpactfuldesignsthatenhance thespacestheylive,work,andthrive in.
INNOVATION
Accountability
AtARENCOS,webelievethattrue innovationdrivesprogress,andwiththat progresscomestheresponsibilityof accountability.Weembracenewideas andtechnologiestocreatesustainable solutionswhileholdingourselves accountabletothehigheststandardsof integrityandtransparency.
GreenDesignProcess&Framework
Methodology
OurprocessandframeworkforBiophilicDesign andNearlyZeroEnergyBuildings(NZEBs)in Cretecombinesinnovativesustainablepractices withadeeprespectfortheisland'suniquenatural environment.Wefocusonintegratingbiophilic elementstoenhancewell-being,usinglocally sourcedmaterials,andprioritizingenergy efficiencytoreducecarbonfootprints.
ExploreourLOGICVentures
LearnmoreaboutSustainableLogicVentures
Throughcarefulplanning,design,and implementation,wecreatespacesthatharmonize withnature,promoteoccupanthealth,andmeet thestringentenergyperformancestandards requiredforNZEBs,settingnewbenchmarksfor sustainablelivinginCrete.
BiophilicDesign&NearlyZeroEnergy Buildings(NZEBs)METRICS
ARENCOSEnergyPerformanceRatio(AEPR)
ThermalComfortIndex
DaylightAutonomy(%)
IndoorAirQuality(IAQ)Index
BiophilicDesignElements(%)
WaterEfficiencyRatingEmployment
EmbodiedCarbonFootprint(kgCO₂e/m²)
OperationalCarbonReduction(%)
RenewableEnergyContribution(%)
ExternalAssurance
OurPassiveHousedesigncertificationisa testamenttoourcommitmenttoultra-lowenergy buildingsandsustainableconstruction.The PassiveHouseInstitute(PHI)inGermanyhas rigorouslyevaluatedourmethodology,ensuring compliancewithPassiveHousestandardsfor energyefficiency,thermalperformance,andair tightness.Thiscertificationvalidatesour approachtominimizingenergydemand, optimizingoccupantcomfort,andreducing carbonfootprints,reinforcingourleadershipin high-performance,sustainablearchitecturein Creteandbeyond.
We’reawareofthelastingandfar-reaching impactsoftheprojectswedeliver.So,weset outtohighlightandaddressrippleeffectson ourdesignswithanemphasisonpassive houseprinciplesandsustainablearchitecture throughourLeadOptimumGreenInvestments &Constructions(LOGIC)Ventures.
Ourultimategoalistocreatea uniqueoutcome,through performanceexcellence,innovation andquality.
Weinsistondesignexcellence,total architecture,energy-saving,principal commitmentandabsolute compliancewiththelatestindustrial standards,energyefficiencyand aesthetics,bringingtogetherthe client’srequirementswiththe influencesoftheprojectitself.
ReportHighlights
Asyouexplorethisreport,you'llencounterawealthof insights,data,andkeyfindings.Toenhanceyourreading experienceandstreamlinenavigation,we’vehighlightedthe mostcriticaltopicsthatdefineourprogress,challenges,and commitments.
WhatweDo
Architectural DesignServices
WeCreateSpaces thatMatter
AtARENCOS,ourrelentlessfocuson excellenceishowwestrivetoimprove ourselves,tochallenge,tothink,andact differently. Ourthoughtful,yetholistic understandingofthebiggerpicture behinganyproject,demonstratesour dedicationtoourclients’requirements, expectationsandopportunities.
Ourarchitecturaldesignphilosophy originatesfromalandscape-based designprinciple:thecharacterofthe sitesetsafundamentaltonethat optimizesconstruction’sfunctionality, essenceofwellbeingandpleasure.
Ineveryprojectweworktoreveal intelligentandmemorablespacesthat inspire,connect,engageandexcite. Exploretheharmoniousblendof cutting-edgearchitectureanda commitmenttoenvironmental consciousness.Oursustainabledesign servicessurpasstraditionalgreen practices,embodyingadedicationto constructingeco-friendlylegacies.
Researchiscreatingknowledgeand knowledgecreatesvalue.AtARENCOS webelieve,thatnothinghassuch powertobroadenthemindasthe abilitytoinvestigatesystematically andholisticallyallthatcomesunder thyobservationinreal-lifeprojects. Because,wealwaysstrivingfor somethinghigher,indeed.
Weinnovateonacontinualbasis, followingtrendsandcustomerneedsin thesectorsinwhichweoperate.We deliveressentialinnovationsacrossour businesses—Construction&Civil Engineering,RealEstate,andProperty Management.Togetherwithourmany partners,we’rehelpingtodiscover betterwaystoreachandsupport operationalexcellence.
Local Ecosystem
Ourmissionistodesignforlife –craftingresidentialandcommercial spaceswherepeopleandnature thrivetogether.Thisvisiondrivesus tocontinuouslyreducethe environmentalfootprintofour operations,integratingsustainability intoeveryaspectofourworkto createlasting,positiveimpact.
INTHISSECTION
EnergyConsumption&Emissions
WaterHarvesting
RecyclableConstructionMaterials
CASESTUDY
CaseStudy:NearlyNet-Zero&BiophilicVillainCrete
In2024,ARENCOSdesignedanddevelopedaluxuryvillainCrete thatintegratesbiophilicdesignprincipleswithNearlyZeroEnergy Building(NZEB)standards.Theprojectfocusedonmaximizing energyefficiency,resourceconservation,andoccupantwell-being whileharmonizingwiththeisland’snaturallandscape.
72%↓
EnergyConsumptionReduction Throughpassivehousedesign, superiorinsulation,andhighperformanceglazing,thevilla achieveda72%reductioninenergy usecomparedtoconventional homes.)
Byimplementingrainwaterharvesting, greywaterrecycling,andefficient fixtures,theprojectreducedwater consumptionby60%,ensuringlongtermresourceefficiency.
80%
Amechanicalventilation systemwithheatrecovery (MVHR),alongwithlowVOCmaterials,enhanced indoorairqualityby85%, promotinghealthand comfort.
78%
Throughlocallysourcedmaterials, low-impactconstructiontechniques, andcarbonoffsetinitiatives,the villa’soperationalcarbonfootprint wascutby78%.
EnergyConsumption&Emissions
GOALS&TARGETS
LowerEmbodiedCarbon by65%
Byusinglocallysourced, recycled,andlow-carbon materials,weaimto significantlyreducethe embodiedcarbon footprintofourprojects.
ReduceOperational CarbonEmissionsby90% Throughpassivedesign, high-efficiencyHVAC,and smartenergymanagement, wetargeta90%reductionin carbonemissionscompared totraditionalbuildings.
Achieve100%Net-Zero EnergyOperations
Byoptimizingrenewable energysystemsand storagesolutions,weaim forfullenergyselfsufficiency,eliminating relianceonfossilfuels.
EnhanceEnergyEfficiency by75%
Westrivetominimize energydemandwith advancedinsulation,passive cooling,andintelligent buildingcontrols.
KeyAchievements&PerformanceMetrics
TotalEnergyConsumptionReduction–72%
Throughhigh-performanceinsulation,airtightconstruction,passive coolingstrategies,andsmartautomation,thevilla’stotalenergy demandwascutby72%comparedtoconventionalhomes.
RenewableEnergySupply–95%
Acombinationofsolarphotovoltaicpanels,batterystorage,anda geothermalheatpumpenabledthevillatogenerate95%ofitsenergy needsfromrenewablesources,significantlyreducingrelianceonthe grid.
OperationalCarbonEmissionsReduction–80%
Byleveraginglow-carbonmaterials,energy-efficientappliances,and optimizedbuildingorientation,thevilla’soperationalcarbonfootprint wasslashedby80%,aligningwithnet-zerotargets.
EmbodiedCarbonReduction–60%
Sourcinglocallyproduced,sustainablematerialsandadoptinglowimpactconstructiontechniquesledtoa60%reductioninembodied carbon,minimizinglifecycleemissions.
HVACEfficiencyImprovement–55%
Amechanicalventilationsystemwithheatrecovery(MVHR)anda high-efficiencygeothermalheatingandcoolingsystemimproved overallHVACenergyefficiencyby55%,ensuringyear-roundcomfort withminimalenergyuse.
OpportunitiesForInnovation
Benchmarking
Benchmarkinghasbeenacriticaltoolforusinidentifyingareasof improvementandopportunitiesforinnovationinourprojects.One ofthechallengeswefacedwasestablishingclearperformance metricsthatwouldnotonlymeetindustrystandardsbutalsopush beyondthem.Byanalyzingbestpracticesinenergyefficiency, carbonemissionsreduction,andsustainablematerials,we identifiedkeyopportunitiestoadvanceourmethodsandachieve evengreaterenergysavingsandloweremissions.
CircularEconomyPractices
Embracingacirculareconomymodelallowsustogobeyond traditionalwastemanagement.Bydesigningfordisassembly, usingmodularconstruction,andincorporatingrecycledandupcycledmaterials,wecanreducewaste,promoteresourcereuse, andlowertheembodiedcarbonfootprintofbuildings.
LOOKINGAHEAD
LeadbyExample
Ourvisionforthefutureinvolvesscalingourinnovativesolutions acrossmoreprojects,creatingeco-consciouscommunities,and influencingthebroaderconstructionindustrytoadoptgreener practices.Bycontinuingtofocusonbiophilicdesign,net-zero energybuildings,andcirculareconomyprinciples,weaimto createafuturewheresustainabilityisnotjustachoice,butthe norm.
Community-FocusedSustainableDesign
Sustainabilityisn’tjustaboutthebuilding— it’sabouthowweinteractwiththebroader community.There’sanopportunitytocreate sharedgreenspaces,communityenergy systems,andsustainabletransportation optionsthatbenefitnotonlythebuilding’s occupantsbutalsothesurrounding community,promotingamoreinclusiveand sustainablewayofliving.
AvailableCertifications: LEED(LeadershipinEnergyandEnvironmentalDesign), BREEAM(BuildingResearchEstablishmentEnvironmental AssessmentMethod),PassiveHouse,WELLBuilding Standard,LivingBuildingChallenge,GreenBuilding CouncilofGreece(GBCG),ISO14001(Environmental ManagementSystems),ISO9001(QualityManagement Systems),EnergyStar,GreenSeal
58%↓
Minimizingembodied carbonthroughadaptive reuseofbuildings, materialresource efficiency,andproduct take-backschemes.
65%↓
Weaimtoachievea 65%reductionin embodiedcarbon throughinnovative strategiessuchas adaptivereuseof existingbuildings, optimizingmaterial
WaterHarvesting
GOALS&TARGETS
GreywaterRecycling&Reuse Treatandrepurposewater fromsinks,showers,and washingmachinesfor irrigation&flushing.
Integratebiofiltration wetlandsorconstructed wetlandsfornatural purification.
RainwaterCollection& Filtration
Implementaroofcatchment systemwithfirst-flush diversiontoimprovewater quality.
Installmulti-stagefiltration (sediment,carbon,andUV) forpotableandnon-potable use.
Soil&LandscapeWater Retention Utilizepermeablesurfaces, swales,andretentionponds topreventrunoff.
Optimizelandscapingwith nativedrought-resistant plantstoreduceirrigation needs.
“Harvestingwaterisnotjustabout conservation—it’saboutcreatingaselfsustainingecosystemwhereeverydropis valued,purified,andre-purposedtonourish bothhomeandnature.”
HowWeProceed
Webeginbyassessingthesite’snaturalwaterresources, climateconditions,andusageneeds.Ourapproachintegrates advancedfiltration,storage,andreusestrategiestoensure efficientwaterharvestingwhilemaintainingecologicalbalance.
Bycombininginnovativetechnologywithbiophilicdesign principles,wecreateself-sustainingsystemsthatminimize wasteandmaximizeresilience,enhancingboththebuilt environmentandthesurroundinglandscape.
OpportunitiesForInnovation
Weimplementedaholisticwaterharvestingsystemtailored forabiophilichouse,integratingrainwatercollection, greywaterrecycling,andadvancedfiltration.Thesystemwas designedtomaximizeefficiencywhileminimizing environmentalimpact.
Weestablishedabaselinewaterusageassessment, incorporatedmulti-stagefiltrationtoensurehigh-quality reuse,andoptimizedstoragecapacityusingnaturaland architecturalelements.Throughsmartmonitoringand adaptivewaterdistribution,wesuccessfullyreduced dependenceonmunicipalsupply,enhancingself-sufficiency andsustainability.
LookingAhead
NewOpportunities,Goals,&Technologies
We’rededicatedtoexploringinnovativeopportunities forwaterconservationwithinourbiophilicdesign projects.Byintegratingthenewest,yetreliableWater Harvestingtechnologies,weaimtoreducewater consumptionwhileenhancingsustainability.
Wewillsetclearwaterusereductiongoalsand continuouslymonitorperformancethroughadvanced systems,ensuringefficientdatacollectionand reportingonWaterUseIntensity(WUI)witheverynew developmentphase.
DesignedbyARENCOS,BiophilicRetreat,Cretesetsanewstandard insustainablelivingwithanadvancedwaterharvestingsystemthat maximizesrainwatercollection,filtration,andreuse.Theresidence integratesmulti-stagefiltration,greywaterrecycling,andpermeable landscapingtominimizewaterwastewhilesupportingthelocal ecosystem.
Bycombiningbiophilicdesignwithself-sustainingwatermanagement, thisprojectdemonstrateshowarchitecturecanseamlesslyadaptto Crete’sclimate,ensuringlong-termresilienceandenvironmental harmony.
Certifications:WISY(first-flushdiverters),Graf(rainwatertanks),3P Technik(filtrationsystems),Hydraloop(greywaterrecycling),Atlantis (modularundergroundstorage),andNetafim(dripirrigation).
50.000 litersofcollected rainwater,ensuring year-roundwater resilience.
reductioninpotablewater consumptionthrough rainwaterharvestingand greywaterrecycling.
RecyclableConstructionMaterials
GOALS&TARGETS
IncreaseMaterialReusability
Prioritizematerialsthatcan berecycled,repurposed,or biodegradedtominimize constructionwaste.
EnhanceEnergyEfficiency
Utilizerecycledmaterials withhighthermal performancetoimprove energyconservationin buildings.
ReduceResourceExtraction
Limittheuseofvirgin materialsbyintegrating morereclaimedand upcycledcomponentsin construction
“Fromcertifiednon-toxic,low-emittingproductsto up-cycledandrepurposedmaterialsthatsupport acirculareconomy,weintegratenature-inspired elementsintoeveryaspectofourworkandthen applyingthisknowledgeandexpertisetocreate inspiring,sustainablehomesforourclients.”
HowWeProceed
AtARENCOS,weintegraterecyclableandsustainablematerialsinto ourbiophilicdesignstominimizeenvironmentalimpactandenhance well-being.Weprioritizelocallysourced,low-emission,andnon-toxic materials,includingupcycledandrepurposedelementsthatsupporta circulareconomy.Byusingreclaimedwood,recycledstone,and efficientconstructionpractices,wereducewasteandpromotea sustainablemateriallifecycle.Wealsoworkcloselywithclientsto educatethemonthebenefitsofthesematerials,ensuringourdesigns contributetobothhealthierlivingspacesandagreenerfuture.
OpportunitiesForInnovation
ARENCOSembracesopportunitiesforinnovation,often exploringnewtechnologiesandmaterialstoimprovefuture designs.Forexample,we’veintegratedsolarpanelsystemsinto homes,improvingenergyefficiencyandreducingdependency ontraditionalenergysources.
Inourrecentprojects,weexperimentedwithgreenroofsand livingwalls,whichnotonlyenhanceaestheticappealbutalso contributetobetterinsulationandbiodiversity.Wealsoexplore smarthometechnologies,likeenergy-monitoringsystemsand automatedlighting,toincreasesustainabilityandcomfort.
LookingAhead
NewOpportunities,Goals,&Technologies
Aswelooktothefuture,ARENCOSiscommittedto advancingtheuseofrecyclablematerialsinbiophilic construction.Weareexploringnewinnovationslike recycledconcreteaggregates,upcycledglass,and sustainableinsulationmaterialstoreducewasteand enhancetheenvironmentalperformanceofour designs.
Ourgoalistocontinuallyrefineouruseofclosed-loop systems,wherematerialscanbefullyrecycledatthe endoftheirlifecycle.Wealsoplantointegrate biodegradableorplant-basedmaterialstofurther minimizeenvironmentalimpactwhilefosteringacloser connectiontonature.Throughtheseefforts,weaimto setnewstandardsinsustainable,biophilicarchitecture thatbenefitboththeenvironmentandthewell-beingof thepeoplewholiveinthesespaces.
CASESTUDY
InarecentprojectinApokoronas,ARENCOSsuccessfullyincorporated recycledconcreteandupcycledwoodintoabiophilichomedesign, reducingtheenvironmentalimpactandgivingnewlifetomaterialsthat wouldotherwiseendupinlandfills.Thehomefeaturedreclaimedstone foroutdoorpathways,whichaddedbothaestheticvalueanddurability. Byusinglocallysourced,low-emissionmaterials,wewereabletoreduce thecarbonfootprintandenhancethehome'sconnectiontonature.
BrandsUsed: Interface,BASF,Durat,Tarkett,GreenBuildingSupply,Repurpose, LunadaBayTile,EcoTimber,Kirei,ReclaimedWoodExchange,Sappi, Enviroboard,TerraMai,USGBoral.
60%
ARENCOSsuccessfullyintegrated over60%recycledmaterials, includingreclaimedwood,recycled concreteaggregates,andupcycled glasselements.
70%↓
byutilizing70%locallysourced materials,weminimized transportationemissionsand ensuredalowercarbonfootprint
Ecosystem&Biodiversity
Crete’sLocalEcosystemHarvesting
AtARENCOS,weembracetheuniquenaturalresources ofCretebyharvestingmaterialsinawaythatsupports theisland'slocalecosystems.Byresponsiblysourcing Crete'sstone,reclaimedwood,andnaturalelements,we minimizeourenvironmentalfootprintwhilepreservingthe island'srichbiodiversity.
Ourbiophilicdesignprojectsarebuilttoseamlessly integratewiththenaturallandscape,usinglocalmaterials toenhancetheconnectionbetweenthebuilt environmentandnature.Thisapproachnotonlycreates aestheticallyenrichingspacesbutalsofostersa sustainablerelationshipwithCrete’secosystemsforthe longterm.
SmallSteps,BigGoals
FromusingCrete’snaturalresourcesmindfullyto implementingrainwaterharvestingandbiodiversityfriendlylandscaping,ARENCOStakessmallbut meaningfulstepstowardamoresustainableandbiophilic builtenvironment.
52% ↓ embodiedcarbonreductionwith theLivingBuildingChallenge certification,whichincluded strategiessuchasbuilding repurposing,materialreduction, materialandfurniturere-use,and selectingmaterialswithtake-back programs.
60% ofthematerialandfurniturewere re-used
Feasibility
Asafirmdedicatedtodesigning sustainablehomes,focusingon thelong-termfinancialbenefitsof theseprojectsenhancesour reputationasleadersin innovative,greenarchitecture. INTHISSECTION
EconomicBenefitsofBiophilicConstruction2024
Risks,Ethics,&Compliance
BiophilicDesign&ConstructionProcess
CurrentTrends
Commitments&Certifications
CASESTUDY
EnergyIndependent&BiophilicHouseinApokoronas,Crete.
Theeconomicfeasibilitywasdemonstratedthroughlong-termsavingsinenergycosts, increasedpropertyvaluesduetotheuniquedesign,andpositiveenvironmentalimpact. Despitethehigherinitialconstructioncosts,theprojecthasshownstrongreturnson investmentthroughreducedenergyconsumptionandhighdemandforeco-friendly properties,provingthefinancialviabilityofsustainabledesign.Thishouseisanexemplarof resourcecircularitythankstomaterialreuse,biophilicelementsandrepurposing.
80%
Ourbiophilicdesigncut energyuseby76% throughpassivesolar heating,agreenroof, andnaturalventilation.
50%↓
Low-flowfixturescutwater usage,reducingcostsby 30–50%whilelowering long-termmaintenance expenses.
200%
Greenroofsandlivingwallscost 5–10%moretomaintainbut enhanceinsulationandextend rooflifespanbyupto200%, loweringreplacementcosts.
EconomicBenefitsofBiophilicConstructionHouses
Investinginabiophilichomeofferslong-termfinancialand environmentaladvantages.Thechartillustratesfourcritical economicaspects:
EnergySavings(30%) –Biophilichomessignificantly reduceenergyconsumption,leadingtolowerutilitybills andincreasedsustainability.
IncreaseinPropertyValue(15%) –Theintegrationof naturalelementsandenergy-efficientdesignenhancesreal estatevalue,makingsuchhomesmoreattractiveinthe market.
ReturnonInvestment(ROI)Period(7years) –Whilethe initialcostisslightlyhigher,thecumulativesavingson energyandmaintenancetypicallyallowforafullreturnon investmentwithinsevenyears.
ConstructionCostPremium(10%) –Implementingbiophilic designrequiresanadditional10%investmentcomparedto traditionalconstruction,butthisisquicklyoffsetby operationalsavingsandincreasedpropertyvalue.
ROIandCostVsSavings
TheROIAnalysischartillustratesthecumulativesavingsovera10-yearperiod, showingasteadyandacceleratingincrease.Thisindicatesthatinvestinginabiophilic houseyieldssignificantfinancialreturnsovertime,withsavingsgrowingexponentially duetoreducedenergyandmaintenancecosts.
Thecomparisonbetweenatraditionalhouseandabiophilichousehighlightsthe economicandenvironmentaladvantagesofbiophilicdesign.Whiletheinitialinstallation costofabiophilichouseisslightlyhigherduetotheuseofsustainablematerialsand renewableenergysystems,thelong-termbenefitsfaroutweightheinvestment.The totallifetimesavingsaresignificantlyhigher,drivenbyreducedoperationalcosts, enhancedenergyefficiency,andlowermaintenanceexpenses.
Biophilichomesbenefitfromgreaterannualenergysavingsduetofeatureslikesolar panels,naturallighting,andpassivecoolingtechniques,whichleadtolowerelectricity consumption.Additionally,maintenancecostsarereducedasthesehomes incorporatedurableandself-sustainingmaterials.
Governmentincentivesfurtherenhancethefinancialappealofbiophilichomes,as manyregionsoffersupportforsustainablehousinginitiatives.Homeownerscanalso generateadditionalrevenuethroughgridfeed-inprogramsbysellingexcesssolar energybacktothepowergrid.Moreover,biophilichomescontributetosubstantial CO₂ reductionbyminimizingrelianceonfossilfuelsthroughtheintegrationofgreen roofs,enhancedinsulation,andrenewableenergysources.
Overall,whiletheupfrontcostofabiophilichousemaybehigher,thelong-termfinancialand environmentalbenefitsmakeitamoresustainableandcost-effectivechoice.Investingin biophilicdesignnotonlyimproveseconomicsavingsbutalsocreatesahealthierandmoreeco-
HowWeProceed
TheBiophilicHousePrototypehighlightstheintegrationofnatureinto architecturaldesignthroughfivekeycriteria:habitat,energy,water,air, andearth.Habitatcriteriaemphasizeinterspeciesconnectivityand restorativehabitatinclusion,fosteringbiodiversitywithinlivingspaces.
Energystrategiesfocusonpassivesolarheatingandexposedsolar-based technology,optimizingnaturalenergysourcesforsustainability.Water elements,suchasnaturalwaterfeatures,exposedpurificationsystems, andvisualwaterstrategies,enhancebothaestheticsandfunctionality.Air criteriaprioritizenaturalventilation,airflowvariability,andnature-basedair qualitymanagementtoimproveindoorenvironments.
Lastly,earth-relatedaspectsincludetheuseoflow-embodiedenergy materials,exposednaturalelements,andsensory-drivenmaterialfinishes.
OpportunitiesForInnovation
Thisnetworkvisualizationillustratestherelationshipsbetweenkeyconceptsrelatedtobiophiliaand biophilicdesign,highlightingtheinterdisciplinarynatureofthefield.Thediagram,createdusing VOSviewer,categorizestermsintoclustersbasedontheirconceptualandcontextualconnections.
Theredcluster,centeredaround"biophilia,"emphasizesthemeslikebiodiversity,conservation, connectedness,well-being,andsustainability,showcasingthepsychologicalandecologicalaspectsof biophilicthinking.Thegreenclusterexploresbehavior,sustainability,urbanization,andpatterns, focusingonhowbiophilicprinciplesinfluencecitiesandecosystems.
Theyellowcluster,anchoredinbiophilicdesign,connectstoarchitecture,performance,daylight,and builtenvironments,reflectingthepracticalapplicationsofbiophiliainurbanplanningandinterior spaces.Lastly,theblueclusterhighlightstheconnectionbetweenhealth,stress,exposure,restoration, andsatisfaction,underliningthephysiologicalandemotionalbenefitsofnature-integratedenvironments.
Thisvisualizationeffectivelydemonstrateshowbiophiliaextendsbeyondaesthetics,influencingmental well-being,urbansustainability,andarchitecturalinnovation.
Risks,Ethics,&Compliance
PolicyandStandards
Asafirmcommittedtosustainableandbiophilic design,ARENCOSrecognizestheimportanceof addressingrisks,ethicalconsiderations,andregulatory compliancewhenintegratingnatureintoarchitectural spaces.
RisksinBiophilicDesign
Whilebiophilicdesignenhanceswell-being,energy efficiency,andsustainability,certainchallengesmust bemanaged:
RegulatoryHurdles –Compliancewithlocalbuilding codesandzoninglawscanbecomplex,especially whenincorporatinggreenroofs,waterfeatures,or livingwalls.
MaintenanceChallenges –Naturalelementsrequire ongoingupkeep,increasingoperationalcostsand potentialliabilitiesforhomeowners.
Health&Safety –Thepresenceofwaterelements, plants,andnaturalventilationsystemsmustbe carefullyplannedtoavoidmoldgrowth,pestissues,or structuraldamage.
MaterialSourcingRisks –Ethicallysourcing sustainablematerialswithoutcontributingto deforestationorhabitatdestructionisakeyconcern.
EthicalConsiderations
ARENCOSisdedicatedtoresponsiblebiophilicarchitecture, prioritizingthepreservationofbiodiversitybyavoidingecological disruptionandfavoringnativeplantspecies.Thefirmupholdssocial responsibilitybyrespectingculturalandcommunityvalues, ensuringaccesstogreenspacesforall.Transparencyandintegrity arecentral,withsustainableclaimssupportedbyevidencetoavoid greenwashing.
Toalignwithglobalsustainabilitystandards,ARENCOSensures adherencetoLEED,WELL,andPassiveHousestandards.Before projectinitiation,thefirmconductsriskassessmentsandimpact studiestoevaluateenvironmentalandsocialeffects,integrating localandinternationalguidelinesforwaterconservation,material usage,andurbangreenspacedevelopment.
LookingAhead
AligningResearchwithourValues
Lookingahead,ARENCOSremainscommittedtoaligningitsvalues withevolvingsustainabilitypracticesbyenhancingbiophilicdesign, strengtheningcommunitypartnerships,andadvancingmaterial innovation.Currentresearchareasincluderesilienturbangreen spaces,waterconservationstrategies,andtheethicalintegrationof AIinsustainablearchitecture,ensuringeachprojectmeetsthe highestenvironmentalandsocialstandards.
“Biophilicdesignisnotjustaboutbringingnatureintospaces;it's aboutcreatingethical,sustainable,andcompliantenvironments thatenhancewell-beingwhilerespectingthebalanceof ecosystems.AtARENCOS,wedesignwithnature—responsibly andresiliently”
ARENCOSBiophilicDesign&ConstructionProcess
AtARENCOS,ourbiophilicdesignandconstructionprocessprioritizessustainability,ethics,and compliancebyintegratingnature,energyefficiency,andresponsibleresourceuse.Weensure resilience,well-being,andminimalenvironmentalimpactthroughinnovativedesign,smart monitoring,andstrictadherencetoglobalstandards.
InternalProcess
1.Site&EnvironmentalAssessment
2.Regulatory&ComplianceIntegration
3.SustainableMaterialSelection
4.PassiveDesignStrategies
5.WaterConservation&Management
6.GreenSpaceIntegration
7.EthicalConstructionPractices
8.CircularEconomyPrinciples
9.EnergyEfficiency&Renewables
10.IndoorAirQuality&Well-Being
11.DigitalTwin&SmartMonitoring
12.LifecycleAssessment(LCA)
Phase KeyActivities Objectives
1.InitialAssessment
Identifyprojectscope,site conditions,andregulatory requirements.
2.Environmental& SiteAnalysis
3.Technical FeasibilityStudy
Conductecologicalimpact studies,climateassessment, andbiodiversityintegration.
Evaluatestructural requirements,material availability,andpassive designstrategies.
4.EconomicViability Assessment
Analyzecostsofsustainable materials,energyefficiency measures,andlong-term savings.
5.Risk& Compliance Evaluation
6.Stakeholder Engagement
7.Lifecycle& Maintenance Analysis
Establishfeasibilitycriteriaandcompliance needs.
Ensuresitesuitabilityandminimize environmentaldisruption.
Assesstechnicalconstraintsand opportunitiesforbiophilicintegration.
Ensurefinancialfeasibilityandreturnon investment.
Assessregulatory compliance,environmental risks,andethical considerations. Mitigatelegalandoperationalrisks.
Consultwithlocal communities,experts,and investors.
Estimateoperationalcosts, durability,andadaptabilityof biophilicelements.
8.FinalDecision& Approval Consolidatefindings,finalize design,andsecurefunding.
Alignprojectgoalswithsocial,economic, andenvironmentalneeds.
Optimizelong-termperformanceand resourceefficiency.
Ensureawell-informedandsustainable projectlaunch.
Table1.ProcessofEvaluatingtheTechnicalandEconomicFeasibilityofaBiophilicProject
WMHeadquarters,Houston,Texas
CurrentTrends
GOALS&TARGETS
Growth
Biophilicdesignis becomingincreasingly popularinCreteasmore homeownersand developersembrace sustainable,natureintegratedarchitecture.
Geographic Expansion
Theadoptionofbiophilic designinCreteis expandingbeyondurban centerstocoastal,rural, andmountainous regions.Areaslike Apokoronas,Platanias, andAkrotiriareleading insustainable developments,while interestisgrowingin Kasteli,AgiaMarina,and evenSfakia Research Studiesfocusonthe benefitsofintegrating naturalelements— suchasventilation, daylight,andnative vegetation—into residentialand commercialbuildings. DistributionofSustainableDesignedPropertiesin ChaniaPrefecture
Sustainablearchitectureisgainingmomentumacrossthe prefectureofChania,withvaryinglevelsofinterestin differentareas.
Accordingtorecentdata,Apokoronasleadsthewaywith 33%ofsustainabledesignedproperties,makingitthemost popularregionforeco-consciousconstruction.Platanias followswith21%,reflectingastrongdemandfor environmentallyfriendlyhomesinthiscoastalarea.
OtherkeyregionsincludeAkrotiri(14%),Kasteli(12%),and AgiaMarina(8%),wheresustainabledesignprinciplesare graduallybeingintegratedintonewdevelopments. Meanwhile,thecityofChaniaitselfaccountsfor6%, indicatinggrowinginterestingreenbuildingswithinthe urbancenter.
ThemoreremoteareasofSfakia(4%)andOtherregions (2%)showsmallerbutnoteworthyadoptionofsustainable design.
OriginsofClientsInterestedinBiophilicDesignBuildings
Thegrowingglobalinterestinbiophilicdesignhasattractedclients fromdiverseregions,eachrecognizingthebenefitsofintegrating natureintothebuiltenvironment.
DigitalAdvancement
Basedonrecentinquiriesandprojectengagements,themajorityof interestedclientscomefromEurope(52%)andtheUnitedStates (25%),reflectingastrongdemandforsustainableandwellnessfocusedarchitectureintheseregions.
OthernotablemarketsincludetheAsia-Pacific(8%),theMiddleEast (3%),andCanada(4.5%),wheresustainableandinnovativedesign approachesaregainingtraction.Meanwhile,LatinAmerica(3.5%), Africa(2%),andOtherregions(2%)showemerginginterest, indicatingagradualshifttowardeco-consciousarchitecturalsolutions worldwide.
Thisdiversegeographicinteresthighlightstheuniversalappealof biophilicdesign,asmoreindividualsandbusinessesseektocreate healthier,moresustainablelivingandworkingspacesthatharmonize withnature.
Tokeepourbusinessrunning smoothly,ourdedicatedteamofIT expertsandUXdesignersdevelops cutting-edgebespoketools—suchas realtimedashboards tomonitoraccountsandproject performance—thatstreamlineour projectmanagementanddelivery. Thesetechnologicaladvancements resultinsavedtimeandexpensefor ourfirmand ourclients, andwe’re committedto continuingto innovate.
Commitments&Certifications
GOALS&TARGETS
IndustryPartnerships
Maintain100%ofour existingpartnerships withindustrypeerswhile activelyexploring opportunitiesforfuture expansion.
WalkingOurTalk Annuallyreportour progressonfulfillingour commitmentsand pledges,ensuring transparencyandpublic accountability.
“AtARENCOS,ourdedicationtoenvironmentalandsocial leadershiphasalwaysbeenacorepartofourmission. Throughsustainabledesignprinciples,responsible constructionpractices,andstrongpartnerships,westrive tocreateameaningfulimpactinourindustry. However,werecognizethattruechangemustbeginfrom within.Ourinternalpoliciesandglobalcommitments driveoureffortstosetnewstandardsinsustainable architecture.Thisreportreflectsourjourneytowarda moreresponsibleandinnovativefuture—onewherewe designnotjustfortodaybutforgenerationstocome.”
HowWeProceed
AtARENCOS,wearededicatedtointegrating biophilicandsustainabledesignprinciplesinto everyprojectweundertake.Ourapproachgoes beyondaesthetics—it’saboutcreatingspacesthat fosterwell-being,enhanceenergyefficiency,and harmonizewiththenaturalenvironment.
OpportunitiesForInnovation
Throughtheuseoflocallysourcedmaterials, passivedesignstrategies,andnativelandscaping, weensurethatourprojectsminimizeenvironmental impactwhilemaximizingcomfortandfunctionality. Ourcommitmentextendstocollaborationswith industryleaders,research-driveninnovations,and continuousadaptationtoglobalsustainability standards.
Byprioritizingnature-inspiredarchitecture,weaim toredefinemodernlivinginCrete,offeringhomes andspacesthatarenotonlybeautifulbutalso restorative,resilient,andenvironmentally responsible.
DrivingInnovationinSustainableandBiophilicDesign
AtARENCOS,ourleadershipisdrivenbyasharedvision ofcreatinginnovative,sustainable,andbiophilicdesigns thatshapethefutureofarchitecture.Ourprofessionals arecommittedtopushingtheboundariesofdesignwhile respectingthelocalcultureandenvironmentofChania, Crete.
Theyprioritizeclientcollaboration,alwaysensuringthat eachprojectalignswithourvaluesofsustainability, functionality,andbeauty.Withadeep-rootedpassionfor sustainability,ourleadershipteambringstogetheryearsof experienceinbotharchitecturalandengineeringfields, guidingthecompanytoexcelindeliveringexceptional, eco-conscioushomes.
LookingAhead
NewOpportunities,Goals,&Objectives
Aswelookahead,wewillcontinuetoimplement bestpracticesoutlinedinourDecarbonizationPolicy andGreenOperationsPlan,strivingtoreduceour carbonfootprintandenhancetheenergyefficiency ofeveryproject.
We’reexcitedtoexplorenewopportunitiesthat integratecutting-edgetechnologies,renewable energysolutions,andsmartbuildingsystemsinto ourdesigns.Theseadvancementswillhelpusmeet andexceedevolvingsustainabilitystandards, ensuringthatourhomesnotonlycomplementthe naturalbeautyofChania,Crete,butalsocontribute toagreener,moresustainablefutureforall.
OurPassiveHouse DesignApproach
LivinginaPassiveHouse meanslivinginaspace withthehigheststandards ofenergyefficiency, comfort,healthand wellbeing.Opposingfrom othersustainablebuilding approaches,Passive Houseisaperformancebasedstandardthat directlyandprecisely addressestheproblemof energyuse.Learnmore aboutour PassiveHouse Designapproach
Off-GridHomesinCrete
AtARENCOS,weseeoff-grid andcarbon-neutraldesignas anopportunitytochallengethe statusquooftheresidential constructionsectorinCrete. Wedesignoff-gridhomesin Cretethatarepurposeful, sustainable,efficientand spectacular. Learnmore
LeadershipbyDesign
Weareacollectiveof designers,engineers,energy specialistsandtechnical experts.Weuseimagination, lessonslearned,technology andrigourtoshapeamore sustainableworld. Learnmoreaboutus.
SustainableBuildings Design
AtARENCOS,we considerhowall parametersofabuilding’s architectural,structural andengineeringdesign synergisticallyworkto meettheneedsof propertyowners, inhabitantsandthe environment. LearnMore.
OurValuesandPrinciples
Whileourbusinesscontinuously evolves,corevalues.are remainingconstant.Theydefine ourwayofworkingandareatthe heartofeverythingwedointhe fieldofarchitecturaland engineeringimmersive experiences. Learnmoreabout ourValues.
DedicatedResearch Research iscreatingknowledgeand knowledgecreatesvalue.AtARENCOS webelieve,thatnothinghassuchpower tobroadenthemindastheabilityto investigatesystematicallyandholistically allthatcomesunderthyobservationin real-lifeprojects.Because,wealways strivingforsomethinghigher,indeed.
Learning&DevelopmentPrograms
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
SUSTAINABLE
ARCHITECTURETRAINING
SOFTWARE& TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOPS
PROJECTMANAGEMENT &LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
CULTURALCOMPETENCY
&CLIENT COMMUNICATION
SUSTAINABILITY& ENVIRONMENTALIMPACT SEMINARS
MENTORSHIPAND COACHING
DESIGNTHINKING& INNOVATION WORKSHOPS
CONTRACT&LEGAL TRAINING
CLIENTMANAGEMENT& CUSTOMERSERVICE
TEAMCOLLABORATION& COMMUNICATION
RISKMANAGEMENT& CRISISRESPONSE
FINANCIALMANAGEMENT FORARCHITECTS
HEALTH&SAFETY TRAINING
Workshopsonsustainabledesigntrends,eco-friendlymaterials,energy-efficientbuildings,passivehouses,andlandscaping.Certificationprogramsforgreenbuilding standards(e.g.,LEED,BREEAM).
Trainingonthelatestarchitecturalsoftware(AutoCAD,Revit,SketchUp),BIMintegration,andVR/3Dmodelingforclientpresentations.
Coursesonprojectmanagementtechniques,riskmanagement,budgeting,andAgileprojectmanagement.Leadershiptrainingtoenhancecommunication,conflict resolution,andstrategicplanningskills.
Workshopsonemailwriting,negotiation,clientrelations,andinterculturalcommunicationskillsfordealingwithinternationalclients.
Internalsessionsonreducingcarbonfootprintsinarchitecture,legalrequirementsforsustainablebuildingsinCrete,andcollaborationwithlocalenvironmentalgroups.
Establishmentofamentorshipprogramwheresenioremployeesguidejuniors,aswellascoachingforskillslikepublicspeakingandnetworking.
Encouragecreativeproblem-solvingthroughDesignThinkingmethods,emphasizinguser-centereddesignprocessesandinnovativeproblem-solvingstrategies.
Providetrainingonarchitecturalcontracts,legalrequirementsforconstructionprojectsinGreece,andregulationsconcerningsustainability.
Coursesonhandlingclientexpectations,managingcomplexclientrequests,andprovidingexceptionalcustomerservicetointernationalclients.
Workshopstoimproveinternalteamcommunication,collaborationtools(e.g.,Slack,Trello,ClickUp),andteamdynamicsinaremoteorhybridenvironment.
Traininginidentifyingprojectrisks,managingcrises(e.g.,constructiondelays,budgetoverruns),andcreatingcontingencyplans.
Seminarsonmanagingprojectbudgets,financialreportingforarchitecturalfirms,costestimation,andstrategiesforimprovingprofitability.
Ensurecompliancewithlocalconstructionsitehealthandsafetyregulations,coveringsafetyprotocols,emergencyprocedures,andriskassessments.
ResearchatARENCOS
Ourresearchspansamultitudeoftypesandtopics, rangingfromformalinvestigationsincollaboration withrenownedacademicpartnerstoappliedstudies focusedoninnovativesolutions.Wetackleawide arrayofsubjects,includingsustainablearchitecture, engineeringdesign,andtheintegrationofcuttingedgetechnologiesinthebuiltenvironment.
CurrentResearch
SustainableBuilding Materials: Investigating eco-friendly,renewable materialsandtheir applicationsin construction.
Energy-EfficientBuilding Design: Exploring techniquesand technologiesfor reducingenergy consumptionin residentialand commercialbuildings.
Climate-Responsive Architecture: Designing buildingsthatadaptto andmitigatetheeffectsof climatechangethrough passivedesignstrategies.
LifeCycleAssessment (LCA)inArchitecture: Analyzingthe environmentalimpactof buildingsthroughouttheir lifecycle,frommaterial extractiontodemolition.
GreenRoofsandUrban Agriculture: Investigating thepotentialofgreen roofsandverticalfarming systemsforurban environments.
Waste-to-EnergySolutions inConstruction: Exploring howwasteproductscan betransformedinto energyorrecycled materialsforusein buildingprojects.
Weassistclientstotransform andimprovetheirlivesandthe placestheylive.
Weinnovateonacontinualbasis,followingtrendsandcustomerneedsinthesectors inwhichweoperate.Wedeliveressentialinnovationsacrossourbusinesses— Construction&CivilEngineering,RealEstate,andPropertyManagement.Together withourmanypartners,we’rehelpingtodiscoverbetterwaystoreachandsupport operationalexcellence.
ARENCOS’sResearchsupportsthecreationofopportunitiesforfuturegrowthby cultivatingpurpose-ledinnovationandvaluecreationacrossouractivities.Italso exploresadjacentbusinessopportunitiesoutsidethescopeofourexistingservices, presentlyFairHousingandDedicatedMarketResearch&Services.
Issuedate: March2025 www.arencos.com 66ApokoronouStreet,73135, Chania,Crete,Greece.