The Office of the Future with SAPA – Innovative and Circular Building Systems

We spoke with Torben Mortensen, Architectural Support at SAPA by Hydro, about material choices, energy efficiency, and circular solutions shaping the workplaces of tomorrow. 

What trends do you see in office construction today? 

“Sustainability and energy efficiency are definitely at the forefront—but also flexibility,” says Torben.  “Modern offices need to adapt to new ways of working and changing needs, while still creating environments where people feel comfortable.”    He also sees a strong shift toward circular building systems, where recycled materials and modular designs play an increasingly important role.  “Aluminium is perfect in that context. It’s recyclable and can be reused again and again without losing its properties,” he explains. 

Major challenges in building sustainable offices 

Torben points out that office buildings are often complex structures with multiple functions.  “Combining energy efficiency with comfort, good indoor climate, and flexibility is a major challenge. It’s about choosing materials and systems that stand the test of time while contributing to a positive experience for the people working there,” he says. 

Material choices and building systems that make a difference 

“We focus on robust materials that require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan,” Torben explains.  Aluminium is one example that combines aesthetics, durability, and energy performance.  “When we design aluminium façades and profiles, we can create long-term sustainable solutions that also look great,” he adds. 

Energy and climate impact in focus 

“We look at the entire lifecycle of a building—from construction to operation.  Energy-efficient ventilation, solar shading, and smart façade systems are key to minimizing energy use,” says Torben. 

He also highlights the importance of planning for future change:  “If we consider disassembly, recycling, and future upgrades already in the design phase, we save both energy and resources in the long run.” 

Innovations for the future 

Torben believes that digitalization, smart systems, and modular solutions will shape the offices of the future.  “We’re seeing developments that allow office buildings to adapt quickly to new work methods while remaining energy-efficient and sustainable.  Circular building systems and recycled aluminium will naturally be part of that mix,” he says. 

Conclusion 

The offices of the future should be flexible, sustainable, and inspiring workplaces.  “At SAPA, our goal is to create building systems that stand the test of time, are climate-smart, and provide environments where people thrive,” concludes Torben Mortensen.