Case Study: The Olivin

The Olivin office development in Stockholm is built with a strong focus on CO₂ reduction and sustainable construction, targeting a 30% cut in emissions while embracing circular economy principles. This case study explores UPB’s role in achieving this target.

UPB scope: Framework structures
Client: Skanska
Location: Stockholm, Sweden
Building type: Office building
Total Area: ~ 34,000 m² BTA
Certifications: LEED Platinum and NollCO2

In accordance with Skanska's ambitions to achieve Net Zero Building certification under the “NollCO2” system, we faced the challenge of reducing the project’s climate impact by 30% from the initial carbon budget goal, which was made possible through early stage involvement.

Taking a holistic approach, we explored every opportunity across the project - from optimizing the structural design to carefully selecting more sustainable building materials - utilizing a broad range of tools and strategies to minimize emissions.

By implementing these changes, we not only succeeded in lowering the carbon footprint from the initial 139 kg CO₂/m² BTA to 99 kg CO₂/m² for the frame structure, achieving the desired goal, but we also managed to shorten the project timeline and reduce project costs by 8.9%.
An essential component of the success of the early-stage involvement was the close collaboration between our engineers and Skanska's, ensuring coordinated joint efforts.

Changes in facade solution

The steel columns and beams in the facade were changed to prefab concrete walls.

Frame Configuration

Key frame optimizations included refining the column and beam layout, adjusting slab sizes and orientations, and integrating a wooden glulam structure.

Sustainalbe Materials

UPB precast concrete: 50% clinker substitution.
Steel components: higher recycled content, higher scrap %
Ready-mix concrete

Another ambition for Skanska was to integrate reused elements into the building structure. For UPB, this became a “project within a project,” requiring dedicated attention from the design and project management teams.

With no existing supply chain for reused materials, we had to navigate the challenge of identifying suitable elements without an established network of suppliers.

Despite these obstacles, and thanks to close collaboration with the client, potential hollow core slabs (HCS) were sourced for reuse from another Skanska project, where they had been temporarily used to secure the building during construction.

The next step - ensuring these elements meet all requirements for reuse.

Element evaluation

Visual check: no frost damage, cracks, or defects
Dimensions verified
CE certification in place
Easy to dismantle (elements were not casted in)
Posed no risk of damage during disassembly

Design and Installation

The next task was to identify optimal zones for the reused elements, ensuring minimized scrap, and organize the process of cut-to-length dimensionning.

Grouped by dimensions to minimize material waste.
Utilized within one slab to maintain a smooth project pace.
The elements were cut to size in a factory in Sweden.
Standard lifting beams and clamps used—no special equipment required.

Our commitment to circular construction doesn't stop here. Together with Skanska, we are now exploring opportunities to identify and integrate reused steel structures into the Olivin framework. Key aspects, such as cross-section verification, thickness requirements, and CE certification for steel profiles, are being addressed in collaboration with Stena Stål, a potential reused material supplier.

By implementing CO₂ reduction strategies and pioneering the reuse of structural materials, UPB and Skanska are setting new industry standards. While challenges remain, the project continues to evolve, reinforcing its status as a benchmark for environmentally responsible construction.

Learn more about our commitment to sustainability here.