LivingLab, the testing ground for sustainable roofs

Multiple innovations, all-in one

Het Dak van de Toekomst combines several cutting-edge applications. It features biobased insulation materials such as mycelium insulation, IKO Atelia biobased PIR, and cellulose insulation integrated into prefabricated roof elements. The roof also includes a green layer with a mix of sedum, herbs, and grasses, as well as innovative solar panels equipped with micro-inverters.

Collaboration as the key to innovation

BouwLab R&Do monitors the impact of these solutions in real time using sensors placed on and beneath the roof. “We measure, among other things, the effect of the green roof on water management and the energy yield of the solar panels,” explains Rob Buren, consultant at BouwLab. “We also analyze how the insulation materials respond to temperature and moisture changes. By testing everything under the same conditions, we gain insights that provide valuable guidance for making new construction and renovation projects more efficient, sustainable, and future-proof.”

Open innovation and practical application

The insights generated from this project are widely shared so that other parties in the construction industry can benefit. De Alliantie will already apply the results this year for roof renovations in the De Lange Heul project and potentially in 2026 for homes in Almere. In addition, we are working with BouwLab and de Alliantie on a financial business case to make bio-based roofing systems price-competitive with traditional materials.

BouwLab is the first testing location in the Netherlands where such a wide variety of innovative roofing solutions are compared under identical conditions. The pilot focuses not only on technical performance but also strongly emphasizes sustainability and circularity. All materials score high on the R-ladder and are locally produced, contributing to a future with lower emissions, greater circularity, and affordable sustainability.