17 April 2026
A new Norwegian initiative for circular tenant improvements is taking shape. Through collaboration between Nr. 17 and Grønn Byggallianse, a model is being developed to reduce the climate impact of fit-outs through early dialogue, increased preservation, and structured working methods.
The model has been developed by a working group representing the entire value chain, including property companies, advisors, interior architects, public authorities, and industry organizations. The initiative is based on dialogue, collaborative forums, and joint exercises, and seeks to contribute to a more sustainable and long-term development of leasing processes within the construction and real estate sector.
Focusing on the Process Behind Climate Impact
In traditional tenant improvements, fully functional interiors are often replaced when new lease agreements are signed. This results in unnecessary resource consumption and significant carbon emissions. The new model addresses this issue by focusing on the early stages of the leasing process, where many of the most critical decisions are made.
By strengthening dialogue between tenants and property owners from the outset, better conditions are created to:
- preserve existing solutions,
- promote reuse and circular material flows,
- reduce the need for new production, and
- ensure cost-effective and climate-conscious decisions.
The initiative emphasizes the importance of shared ambitions, transparency, and structured decision-making that takes both environmental and economic considerations into account.
A Model Based on Collaboration
The proposed process introduces a new best practice for circular tenant improvements and consists of three overarching phases: Closed Process, Dialogue, and Collaboration. The model aims to ensure that the right stakeholders are involved at the right time and that the existing qualities of a space are preserved before decisions on refurbishment and new acquisitions are made.
A key element is early collaboration and joint requirement-setting between tenants and property owners. By analysing the premises and operational needs at an early stage, the model creates favourable conditions for reduced climate impact and increased resource efficiency.
A report on the initiative is scheduled for publication by Grønn Byggallianse before the summer of 2026.
Relevance for Hållbar Interiör
The Norwegian model aligns closely with the principles of Hållbar Interiör and the HI certification. Particularly clear connections can be seen in:
- early needs analysis and strategic planning,
- preservation and reuse of fixed interiors and furnishings,
- reduced climate impact from tenant improvements,
- increased transparency and collaboration between tenants and property owners, and
- structured reporting of climate impact in CO₂e.
By making climate impact visible and promoting circular solutions, the HI certification helps operationalise the ambitions highlighted in the model.
An Important Step in the Nordic Transition
This initiative demonstrates the value of Nordic knowledge exchange in the transition toward a more circular and climate-conscious construction and real estate sector. By developing shared methodologies and strengthening collaboration across the value chain, better conditions are created to reduce the climate impact of interiors and tenant improvements.
The work is being followed with great interest by Hållbar Interiör and represents a valuable contribution to the continued development of sustainable and resource-efficient processes.
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