Sustainability in construction

how to build an efficient, modern and future-ready home

Building a house is a life project. And more and more, beyond comfort and aesthetics, an essential concern arises: sustainability. 

But what does it really mean to build sustainably in Portugal today? And how can this concept be applied without giving up on design, functionality, or budget? 

At Senna Building, we believe sustainability is not a trend, it’s a commitment. In this article, we explain how it’s possible to align construction with environmental responsibility, without complication.  

 

1. What sustainability in construction is (and what it isn’t) 

  • It goes far beyond simply using “green materials.” 
  • It’s about optimizing resources, reducing waste, and considering the full life cycle of the building.  
  • It starts at the design phase, with smart choices from the land selection to the final finishes.  

 

2. Why it matters in Portugal today 

  • The construction sector is one of the largest consumers of energy and raw materials. 
  • European and Portuguese regulations already require high energy-efficiency standards for new buildings (e.g., SCE — Energy Certification System). 
  • There are incentives such as reduced VAT for sustainable renovations, access to green financing, and increased property value. 

 

3. 5 practices we apply to make each project more sustainable 

  1. Maximizing natural light and ventilation
     ➤ Energy savings and greater thermal comfort. 
  2. Choosing durable, locally sourced materials
     ➤ Reduced transportation, greater resistance, less maintenance. 
  3. Thermal and acoustic insulation solutions
     ➤ Lower heating and cooling costs. 
  4. On-site waste management system 
     ➤ Prevents improper disposal and minimizes waste. 
  5. Integration with solar panels and heat pumps​ 
     ➤ Accessible, efficient, and highly valued technology in the region. 

 

4. Benefits of sustainable construction for the client 

  • Long-term savings (energy and maintenance). 
  • Increased property value. 
  • Greater comfort and quality of life. 
  • Real contribution to the planet, without compromising aesthetics or efficiency. 

 

5. Building consciously is the future, and it’s already within reach 

Sustainability isn’t a luxury: it’s smart planning. 

By choosing to build with a company that understands and applies these principles from the beginning, you invest in quality, responsibility, and durability. 

At Senna, we integrate the most modern sustainable solutions into the design and execution of every project, always focused on the client experience. 

 

If you’re thinking of building or renovating your home with an eye toward the future, talk to us.​ 

We’ll be happy to show you how to make your project more efficient, beautiful, and sustainable. 

Energy Eficciency
What is it and how does it work?