DGNB for Interiors certification - Sustainable solutions for small renovations and interior projects

Interior design projects also leave a sustainability footprint

With DGNB for Interiors - renovation and refurbishment, the Danish Council for Sustainable Building now offers a certification that addresses the smallest scale so far: interior design projects and minor renovations inside the building.

"With DGNB for Interiors, we can qualify the sustainability level inside the building, which both creates a healthier environment for the end user and increases value for the building owner. This applies whether you're working with residential interiors, office blocks or just a small office space. DGNB Space is an effective tool and provides an incentive to choose sustainable solutions, also for interior design projects that have so far been off the DGNB radar," explains Kathrine Wang Esbjørn, Senior Client Advisor and Space Planner at KHR Architecture.

"I am confident that developers will also embrace this certification as it can lead to higher rental income, lower maintenance costs and at the same time contribute positively to ESG accounting. The DGNB for Interiors certification ensures that sustainability is considered in every renovation and interior design - and it's a certification that benefits both users and owners," Kathrine continues.

DGNB Space - now you can get small-scale projects certified

The DGNB system is internationally recognised for promoting sustainable buildings, and with DGNB Space, the system can now also be applied to the interior design of buildings that have not previously been part of the certification. This means that loose and fixed fixtures and fittings as well as minor renovations can also be documented as sustainable initiatives. DGNB for Interiors provides a precise assessment of factors such as indoor climate, choice of materials, recycling, energy optimisation and user comfort, focusing on both the climate and the well-being of the individual user.

GDNB Space is focused on a number of criteria within environmental, economic and social quality. Depending on how many points you achieve in total, you can be certified to DGNB bronze, silver, gold or platinum.

DGNB Rum is given both as a basic certification and a full certification:

• A Basic Certification only covers the renovation of fixed elements in the lease and does not include loose fixtures. User focus will still be emphasised.
• Full certification is achieved by documenting the renovation, loose fixtures and fittings and the interior design process.

Benefits of DGNB for Interiors certification

The certification focuses on a physical environment that is not only pleasant to spend time in, but also responsible in terms of the environment and resource consumption:

• Improved indoor climate and well-being for users
• Proven sustainability through interior design and remodelling
• Reduced operating costs through energy efficiency improvements
• Increased value and lifespan of the space or building section

DGNB for Interiors and ESG data

DGNB Space consists of a number of criteria divided between the categories environment, social quality and economy.

DGNB Space collects ESG data and background documentation based on internationally recognised standards and measurement methods. This data can be used both for ESG reporting and as documentation of building sustainability, making the certification particularly relevant for owners and tenants who want to document and communicate their sustainability initiatives.

Although DGNB Rum primarily focuses on smaller renovations that are often not covered by the EU Taxonomy Regulation, the certification also enables screening and data collection for ESG reporting and compliance with the DNSH (Do No Significant Harm) criteria.

Need a DGNB Consultant?

Kathrine is a certified DGNB Space consultant and has experience with ESG, so she can help you with the entire process. From planning to final DGNB Space certification, she ensures that your project meets sustainability and indoor climate standards. Get in touch with Kathrine to find out more.