Consto and Siva are building the sustainable innovation center of the future in Tromsø:
Stage 4 at the Research Park in Tromsø has set a new standard for sustainable construction - both nationally and internationally. With a BREEAM-NOR Outstanding certification and a record score of 99.2%, this is not only Norway's first building to achieve such a goal – it is also the world's northernmost building with Outstanding status.
The challenge: Sustainability must be planned from the start
"You can't achieve such a high score if the project isn't planned for sustainability from the outset", says Ida Bordi Stene (pictured right), project manager and BREEAM manager at Consto. Photo: Siva and Consto.
Ida has had a central role as BREEAM AP, with responsibility from design to execution - a role she has held for three years. "Such an ambitious project requires more than just good intentions – it requires structure, overview and a platform that ensures accountability and interaction".
The solution: Interaxo and the BREEAM module
Interaxo was chosen as the digital platform for the project, and the BREEAM module was tailored to the needs of the project. Ida had previous experience with Interaxo and highlights several advantages:
"It's a big plus that we could get the modules tailored. We could easily extract data in Excel, customise the documentation flow, and gather everything in one place".
The documentation in BREEAM is divided into the engineering phase, design and completion. With the help of Interaxo, folders and workflows were created to support the entire process. All documentation was gathered and followed from start, through revision and to final approval.
"Everything is so well sorted that if you need to replace a person, everything is still there. What if you had used email instead? That would be horrible!" says Ida with a smile.
A demanding project - and an award-winning result
The project has been both demanding and unique - not only because of the level of ambition, but also because of the location in Tromsø and unforeseen events along the way, such as the bankruptcy of subcontractors. Nevertheless, the project managed to deliver on time and on target, thanks to good collaboration between Consto and Siva, and not least a clear sustainability strategy.
"What is an innovation center without innovations?" Ida asks rhetorically.
In May 2025, the project was awarded the prestigious BREEAM Award for New Buildings, with the jury stating: "The building has set a new standard for BREEAM-NOR certification in Norway."
Key figures from the project:
What does the customer say about Interaxo and further development?
Ida emphasises that Interaxo made it easy to share findings, reports and feedback – and that it facilitated good interdisciplinary collaboration. However, they also have suggestions for improvement:
Improved search and more dynamic meeting functionality is already work in progress and will be launched shortly.
Summary: Planning, compliance and technology
Consto and Siva have proven that it is possible to achieve world-leading results - even in demanding environments. Ida concludes with a clear message:
"Good sustainability is also interdisciplinary sustainability. It's about good communication and accountability".
Would you like to know more about how Interaxo's BREEAM module can support your sustainability projects? Get in touch with us!