What Are Green Buildings? Rönesans Holding’s Green Building Certified (LEED, BREEAM) Projects  

As modern cities rise rapidly, it’s not only buildings that are being shaped; our collective future is taking form, too. Yet, when this growth fails to progress in harmony with nature, it may result in long-term challenges that affect us all. For this reason, buildings today must be more than aesthetically pleasing and functional; they must also be environmentally responsible, resource-efficient, and prioritise human health. At this very point, green buildings lay the foundations for a sustainable future.

Green buildings are structures built using environmentally friendly materials designed to use energy and water efficiently and to minimise their carbon footprint. Their design not only contributes to environmental preservation but also offers long-term economic benefits. Furthermore, they provide healthier, more peaceful, and more comfortable spaces for those living there. Green buildings help us adopt a lifestyle that values both people and the planet.

At Rönesans Holding, we integrate our sustainability approach into every stage of our projects, from design and construction to operation and offer solutions that comply with green building certification standards. Among our Group companies, Rönesans Gayrimenkul Yatırım has achieved the prestigious 'Outstanding' BREEAM rating for 15 assets within our managed portfolio, demonstrating our firm commitment to environmental excellence

What Are Green Buildings?  

Green buildings are structures constructed using environmentally responsible materials, designed to minimise energy and resource consumption, and based on a sustainable design approach. These buildings not only improve energy efficiency but also reduce environmental impacts, offering an eco-conscious approach. While supporting the conservation of natural resources, they also provide occupants with healthy and comfortable living environments.
 
Green building projects are assessed through internationally recognised certification systems. Certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), and DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) are among the most prestigious in evaluating a building’s environmental impact and sustainability performance. These certifications assess criteria such as energy saving, water management, indoor environmental quality, and the ecological impact of building materials to determine a structure’s level of sustainability. Buildings that achieve high levels of certification demonstrate environmental responsibility while significantly boosting their investment appeal.

Energy consumption is minimised through advanced insulation systems, natural lighting solutions, and the integration of renewable energy sources. Water resources are preserved through rainwater harvesting systems and low-flow fixtures. Waste is reduced during both the construction and operational phases through strategic waste management practices. At the same time, environmentally friendly materials and effective ventilation systems improve indoor air quality, creating healthier living spaces for building occupants.

The Importance of Green Buildings  

Green buildings are becoming increasingly significant with their environmentally responsible designs and sustainable technologies. These structures offer key advantages not only in terms of aesthetics and functionality but also in their positive impact on the environment. Turning green building development into a long-term plan can help foster a heightened awareness of environmental issues.

• By offering nature-friendly solutions such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction, green buildings minimise environmental impact. In doing so, they lower carbon footprints and contribute to the preservation of natural resources.
• Efficient energy systems and water management solutions in green buildings offer savings not only for the environment but also for property owners. They reduce operational costs in the long term by decreasing energy and water consumption.
• Green buildings significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by employing renewable energy sources and low-emission materials. Raising awareness around green building practices plays a vital role in combating climate change and contributes to environmentally responsible urban development.
• Green buildings promote healthier environments by improving indoor air quality and utilising natural light. In other words, they support both the physical and mental well-being of occupants, enhancing their quality of life.
• Growing demand for environmentally friendly projects makes green buildings an attractive investment. Additionally, their low energy costs and reduced maintenance expenses offer economic advantages.
• With eco-conscious landscaping and green spaces, green buildings enhance urban liveability. Moreover, these structures promote social well-being and contribute to a sustainable urban lifestyle.  

Rönesans Holding’s Green Building Projects  

In recent years, interest in green buildings has seen a significant rise in Türkiye and worldwide. Increasing environmental awareness, the need for energy conservation, and the goals of sustainable development have driven the construction sector to adopt more eco-friendly practices. Particularly in major cities, residential, office, and commercial buildings are now being developed with energy efficiency and environmentally sensitive design in mind.

The number of projects with international green building certifications, such as LEED and BREEAM, is also increasing rapidly. The “Marina One” project in Singapore combines skyscrapers with lush gardens, while “The Edge” in Amsterdam stands out as the world’s smartest and most energy-efficient office building.

At Rönesans Holding, we are proud to be part of this transformation. Our BREEAM-certified projects developed through Ballast Nedam in the Netherlands have been designed with a focus on energy efficiency and healthy living spaces. Through our green building projects, we add value to both the environment and people.

• Jonas Project, Amsterdam: The Jonas Project stands out not only for its energy efficiency but also for its community-oriented design as a BREEAM-certified sustainable building. Built using sustainable materials, the project combines modern urban living with nature through its expansive green areas, natural ventilation systems, and energy-saving solutions.
• Cartesius Project, Utrecht: Developed with a vision of healthy living and sustainable urban development, the Cartesius Project is another standout BREEAM-certified initiative. Cartesius aims to offer a healthier life in the heart of the city with renewable energy systems, water management solutions, and community-centred green spaces.
• Nature Houses, Brabant: Designed to create a living environment in complete harmony with nature, Nature Houses is a BREEAM-certified eco-friendly project. With energy efficiency, the use of natural materials, and a landscape that supports biodiversity, it successfully minimises environmental impact.
• İzmir Optimum Shopping Centre, İzmir: Going beyond its primary purpose as a shopping destination, İzmir Optimum offers an eco-friendly living space through its energy-saving systems and sustainable architectural design. It is the first building in Türkiye to receive the latest version of the BREEAM certificate, Commercial Version 6 and was awarded an “Outstanding” rating.
• Hilltown Küçükyalı Shopping Centre, İstanbul: Hilltown Küçükyalı stands out as a BREEAM-certified structure with its environmentally conscious design, resembling a small town and embracing a neo-classical architectural style that successfully blends with nature.
• Maltepe Piazza Shopping Centre, İstanbul: Maltepe Piazza is one of our sustainable shopping and lifestyle centres, designed with a strong focus on environmental responsibility. In 2024, it achieved the prestigious 'Outstanding' BREEAM certification, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable development