Kyklos Building

The Kyklos building exemplifies UNS’ commitment to reducing the whole-life carbon footprint of buildings. While operational carbon has been a primary focus in recent years, in fact 90% of a building’s carbon emissions over its first 40 years are determined by the materials used. To address this, UNS employed its Carbon Builder tool during the concept design phase, enabling the team to reduce the building’s embodied carbon by 80% compared to a traditional office in Luxembourg.

A hybrid steel-concrete structure was selected for its superior long-term carbon performance, balancing functionality with sustainability. The use of 100% recycled steel and concrete mixtures further enhanced the building’s environmental credentials. This approach demonstrates that sustainable buildings can achieve ambitious carbon reductions without compromising on design or functionality.

Inspired by its location next to the Place des Bassins, Kyklos integrates seamlessly into its urban surroundings. The circular geometry of the square is reflected in the building’s design, creating a symbolic "third loop" that connects the site’s industrial past with its sustainable future.

The building’s design prioritises transparency, daylight, and flexibility. A setback corner on the lower levels provides shading, while a circular staircase in the lobby visually connects the interior to the square outside, while also encouraging stair use over elevators. The floor plates, suspended from steel cables, eliminate the need for load-bearing columns, allowing for adaptable interior layouts and future use changes.

With ambitions to achieve BREEAM Excellent and WELL Gold, Kyklos sets a new benchmark for sustainable urban development. It demonstrates that innovative geometry, flexibility, and low-carbon strategies can coexist, paving the way for a future where design and sustainability truly merge.