Why Cork?

Cork comes from the cork oak tree, Quercus suber.

Unlike most materials, it is not taken from the wood of the tree, but from its bark — a renewable outer layer that regenerates over time.

Cork has been used for more than 2,000 years, particularly across the Mediterranean.

Historically, it was used for insulation, footwear, floats and construction elements. Today, the same material is used in modern buildings, transport systems and energy applications.

Cork is harvested without cutting down the tree.

The bark is carefully removed by hand every 9 to 12 years, allowing the tree to continue growing. As the bark regenerates, the tree absorbs additional CO₂, increasing its carbon storage over time.

As the cork regenerates, the cork oak continues to absorb CO₂, while the harvested cork stores biogenic carbon within the material.

Cork forests support biodiversity, protect soil and sustain long-term rural economies.

They are managed landscapes that rely on continuous care rather than intensive farming.

Material Properties

Cork is:

• Natural and renewable
• Breathable and vapour-open
• Durable and long-lasting
• Stores biogenic carbon

Cork is a material that works with the building, and with the environment it comes from.