Thoravej 29 Website

A carbon-conscious approach to web design

Thoravej 29 is a community and professional network focused on fostering radical change for people and society.

Whilst the building is reconstructed, through an ambitious scheme by Pihlmann Architects repurposing 95% of existing materials, Thoravej 29’s identity also had to create as minimal a carbon impact as possible. After researching and trialing different elements of low-carbon web design, we established a site that offers users an interactive experience without the bloated, resource-heavy features that we have come to expect.

We considered: a simplified user journey, reduced use of JavaScript, coded animations instead of video, remaining videos do not autoplay, the removal of cookies, and the creation of a low-impact version of the site.

When a user visits the site a second time, they are prompted to choose between ‘eco mode’ and the full website, accompanied by data comparing the carbon impact of both options. In eco mode, images are only loaded on request, allowing key information to be accessed without the transfer of large amounts of data. This feature introduces visitors to Thoravej 29’s sustainable mission, making it an inescapable part of their work as a community.

Our work on Thoravej 29’s website and identity enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of the environmental impact of every area of our practice. In the inevitable push towards a carbon-responsible society, we must embrace a new future for our industry and accept that things will look and behave a little differently.

Thoravej 29 is a Danish Design Award 2025 finalist.

Development: Jacob Frederiksen