Initiated by Bostik in 2013, the laboratory-house project for sustainable construction has now become a reality with the inauguration of the Smart House by Arkema. With this unique house concept designed to test, validate and develop new solutions for construction, Arkema and Bostik undertake a real-life demonstration of their know-how regarding materials and energy efficiency. A showroom highlighting the Group’s innovative materials dedicated to construction complements the installation.
Arkema and Bostik, responsible construction players
"With this connected house, Arkema sets out its ambition to develop innovative, responsible and sustainable solutions for environmentally sounder buildings, throughout their lifecycle" explains Bernard Pinatel, Vice President of Arkema’s High Performance Materials segment.
The Smart House project entails a life-size pilot laboratory of what sustainable construction will be by 2030.
It allows the Group’s researchers and its scientific partners, companies and universities, to develop a comprehensive R&D approach to imagine the future innovations linked to four housing themes, tested in real conditions in the home: environment, energy efficiency, comfort, and health.
A world first
The Smart House is the first home on the planet poised to receive four international sustainable construction certifications: double environmental certification Leed® and Breeam® and double thermal certification Passivhaus® and Bepos®.
Built on the site of the Bostik Smart Technology Centre in the Oise department north of Paris, the Smart House consists of two complementary buildings: first a 160 sq m futuristic house, built with ultra sophisticated solutions and technologies. Exclusively dedicated to research and development, this veritable full-scale ecosystem accommodates experimentation involving everyday life scenarios.
Opposite the house, a new showroom has been set up to observe the activity in the house, develop a spirit of innovation, and offer a showcase for Arkema’s and Bostik’s know-how. The innovative materials dedicated to sustainable construction are in fact accessible and readily understandable by visitors, e.g. customers and partners.
A project in line with COP 21
As a responsible chemicals manufacturer, Arkema relentlessly works to combat climate change. Over and above minimizing the environmental footprint of its activities, Arkema manufactures and develops products and innovative technical solutions which play an indirect role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as well as storing energy and developing new energies.