BAM Contractors Zettel Oost, Belgien

Greenlab Kerakoll – Sassuolo, Italy
Project overview

The Greenlab Kerakoll facility in Sassuolo is a research and office complex for a materials manufacturer. The building is part of a broader sustainability initiative, incorporating renewable energy sources and eco‑friendly materials. The design by Studio Bios / Barbara Bonadies emphasises natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
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Design challenge

Offices on the south side of the building required shading to prevent overheating and glare, particularly given the warm Italian climate. At the same time, the company wanted to integrate photovoltaic panels into the façade to generate electricity. The roof needed to deliver daylight to interior spaces while reflecting unwanted heat.

RetroSolar strategy

Individual offices use RETROLuxTherm glazing, combining micro‑louvers with high‑performance glass
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. The south façade also incorporates photovoltaic modules, creating a dual‑function façade that generates electricity and moderates solar gains. A central opening in the roof admits daylight into the core of the building, while RETROFlexTherm louvers reflect southern sun and diffuse sky light, maintaining views to the zenith
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. The micro‑louvers in the glazing block direct sunlight while allowing diffuse light, and the RetroFlex louvers in the roof provide further control.

Building physics and performance

The combination of micro‑louvers and photovoltaic panels results in a façade with low solar heat gain and energy‑producing capability. The roof louvers reflect heat while admitting diffuse light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. The system ensures comfortable conditions for researchers and office staff, supporting productivity while contributing to the building’s renewable energy generation.

Architectural outcome and significance

Greenlab Kerakoll exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable building design, combining daylight control with on‑site energy generation. The integration of RetroSolar technology enables the building to achieve high environmental performance without sacrificing aesthetics. The project demonstrates how shading, daylighting and photovoltaics can be successfully combined in a cohesive architectural solution.