Västerås pilot - non-toxic and climate neutral kindergarten/preschool

Västerås non-toxic and climate neutral kindergarten/preschool

The City of Västerås is developing a non-toxic, climate-neutral preschool, with a design and construction approach focused on sustainability and flexibility. The project, which began in the spring of 2024, aims to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining economic feasibility.

The project follows a collaborative contract model, where the construction company, architects, and subcontractors work together to ensure sustainable solutions throughout the process.

The foundation of the building will be concrete, due to cost and topographic constraints, while the main structure will be wood to lower the building’s carbon impact. Facades and interiors will prioritize renewable and reused materials wherever possible.

CO2 calculations are mandatory for all new municipal buildings in Sweden, with the builder using a tool to track emissions; data is mostly generic but can be adjusted based on specific inputs.

The building will be certified to Miljöbyggnad Silver, with Gold standards for energy, circularity, and chemicals. The use of materials is strictly monitored through the Byggvarubedömningen logbook with the target that 20% of the products will be assessed as “Recommended” according to Byggvarubedömningen. Products assessed as “To be avoided” shall be limited as far as possible, and will need acceptance by Västerås stad before installation.

The project specifically avoids PVC flooring due to its release of plasticizers into indoor air, opting instead for materials that meet functional, hygienical  and noise requirements without compromising indoor air quality. Circular or pre-used floor materials are also being considered.

The building’s position was adjusted 90 degrees compared to the original plan. This solution optimises both foundation construction work and solar load of the building, providing an efficient solution in costs, energy efficiency and sustainability.

The project is governed by a strict budget and timeline, with any unimplemented sustainable solutions will be documented for use in future projects.

Final decisions on construction details will be made in the first half of 2025, continuing the project’s commitment to sustainability and functional design.

The preschool’s design is adaptable and could be easily repurposed for other uses, such as a municipal psychiatric accommodation, by simply adding a few walls and bathroom adjustments.

This preschool project in Västerås is a pioneering effort to balance environmental responsibility with practical and economic considerations, aiming to set a standard for future municipal buildings.

Programme Manual Online

Choose