DUAL

NEUF architect(e)s + Webster & Fils + Permacon

Short description

Representing a significant advancement in the construction sector, which generates almost 40% of carbon emissions worldwide, DUAL is the first research-action partnership to emerge from NEUF's Sustainable Strategies department. This sustainable concrete brick brings together two of the most prominent construction companies in Eastern Canada alongside an architecture firm: Webster, which specialises in masonry distribution, and Permacon, the country's largest manufacturer of concrete products.

The partnership was formed with the aim of developing an environmentally and socially responsible product with a universal design that is economically competitive and appeals to architects, developers, entrepreneurs and decision-makers. Following two years of research, it was found that the DUAL concrete brick reduces life-cycle carbon emissions by more than 20%, primarily due to the inclusion of recycled materials in its composition.

The DUAL concrete brick reduces the amount of materials used by almost a third compared to traditional concrete, thanks to innovative honeycombing in its design. Product experts have optimized its composition and physical properties to maximize performance and sustainability. Studies are already underway to further reduce the carbon footprint of the next generation of concrete products, reinforcing the three partners' commitment to a sustainable future.

The product range comprises three natural shades–grey, yellow and red, and two formats. Each of the six options comes with two usable faces–one smooth and one grooved, which can be varied and adapted to any project. The honeycombs' dimensions and strategic arrangement make construction site handling easy, so installation is faster and more efficient.

With its unique design and ecological benefits, DUAL creates a new benchmark for sustainable construction, combining aesthetics, efficiency, and environmental credentials.