Ecoalf opens its first net zero store in Madrid

To reach net zero, Ecoalf has focused on 2 key areas: Sustainable materials and renewable energy. When designing their store in Caleido, they worked alongside international interior designer Lorenzo Castillo and experts in bioclimatic architecture MVN arquitectos to create 3D renders of different eco-designs and choose the solutions that offer the lowest impact possible without compromising on design.

The key criteria for the materials used was having a positive CO2 impact, recycled content, and the ability to be reutilized and recycled at the end of their lifecycles. Wood beams, sourced locally from Spanish forests wave across the 149 m2 space, a material with a positive CO2 impact, as trees actively absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during their lifecycles. The furniture is made with an oak wood and then covered with a natural raffia while the tall tables have an insert fitted with white clay tiles. 100% Recycled polyester fabrics that give a second life to recycled plastic bottles are used to upholster the cushions, furniture, and serve as the drapery for the dressing room. The walls are covered with terracotta, a material that naturally regulates heat and humidity lowering the store’s energy consumption.

For the minimal amount of energy needed, the store relies on 15 solar panels installed by emovili, a Spanish company that specializes in their installation. The panels have an average lifecycle of 25 years and prevent 2.95 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere annually. Made from silicon, they are almost completely recyclable to promote the circular economy. Being located next to IE University’s tower the store will serve as an opportunity to educate the future generations, serving as a meeting point for students with Ecoalf’s ACT NOW! sessions in which they invite professionals and experts to discuss sustainability topics and inspire change.