Stilla: sustainable acoustic panels

Democo moves the construction sector toward sustainability

Contractor Democo, part of Democo Group, gave sustainability a prominent place in its corporate strategy in 2024. Less than two years later, the contractor has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the field of circular construction. Democo focuses on the reuse of materials and innovation, while actively building a community of companies that promote circular thinking. In doing so, the family-owned business is helping to drive a change in mindset, both within the construction industry and beyond.

In 2024, Democo Group completed the transition from the second to the third generation of leadership. For the new generation at the helm, it was only natural that sustainability would become a central pillar of the group’s strategy. Through its approach, Democo demonstrates that sustainability can be both achievable and affordable. Stilla spoke with Raf Houben, COO of Democo Group, who explains how the contractor is actively contributing to the advancement of circularity and positioning itself as a leader in the construction sector.

Construction sites as a playground for circularity

Democo shows the outside world that making sustainability a priority is entirely possible. Whether in the use of materials or structural components, the company approaches every project from a circular perspective.

Through this approach, Democo succeeds in integrating an unprecedented percentage of circular materials into its buildings. Beyond its day-to-day operations, Democo also looks ahead. With a long-term vision in mind, the company actively invests in innovation. It participates in various research and working groups focused on sustainability and circularity. “It is important that we stay informed about the latest insights and actively contribute to research,” Raf explains. In this way, Democo helps build an integrated sustainability strategy—not only to meet standards, but also for the benefit of people and the planet.

Building a sustainable community

According to the COO of Democo Group, the sustainability transition is accelerating particularly fast in Brussels. “Construction is often seen as a traditional sector, but in recent years there has been tremendous progress in sustainability, especially in Brussels.”He attributes this progress largely to legislation and the mindset of Brussels-based clients. The local context and support mechanisms allow companies to experiment and innovate. “Brussels is a few steps ahead in that regard.”

Democo is currently developing Stadsatelier in Brussels, a project that will bring together a community committed to promoting sustainable values. One of the like-minded partners involved is Stilla.

Raf also highlights the strength of combining circularity with acoustic solutions. “The combination is very powerful.” Acoustics remains a challenge that contractors face daily. By bringing together circularity and acoustic performance, Stilla has become a valuable partner for contractors who place sustainability at the center of their projects. “It is a pleasure to work with partners such as Stilla, who actively promote circular thinking.”

Achievable and affordable

Democo’s starting point is that circularity must remain practical and affordable. The company aims to set a strong example and lower the barriers for contractors who have limited resources or time to invest in sustainability initiatives.

Through its approach, Democo sends a strong signal to the rest of the construction industry and demonstrates what a circular strategy looks like in practice. By raising awareness and inspiring change, the company hopes to contribute to a broader shift in mindset, making sustainability the new standard not only in Brussels, but throughout Flanders as well.