A unique new construction complex in Amsterdam
The initial plans for the new construction complex Nieuw Develstein in Amsterdam Southeast were already in place during the banking crisis. Only after that global economic dip (from 2014) was the new construction plan seriously taken up. Jurriaan van Stigt, as founder and architect, was involved in the development of this project together with the team from LEVS architects. Under their responsibility, the choice of materials used was made. For the framing of the windows on the upper floors, the expertise and experience of Holonite were called upon. This ultimately resulted in the delivery and installation of a total of 1110 white composite stone frames. The Amsterdam architect explains why this choice was made.
Well-thought-out plan, fitting into the surroundings
According to the architect, besides aesthetics and sustainability, the cost aspect also played an important role in this project. “After all, this involved the realization of no less than 262 affordable and, by Amsterdam standards, very spacious rental apartments. To ensure that affordability, you have to watch the costs. We involved main contractor Ten Brinke Bouw and also the subcontractors and suppliers in this process.”
Smart choices without compromises
The architect explains that sometimes difficult choices have to be made. “As an architect, you want to make as few concessions as possible in terms of the design that has been carefully developed to fit the surroundings. The materialization is an essential part of this. My father, also an architect, always said: Nothing is as beautiful as designing palaces for ordinary people. That only works by making smart choices together.”
Holonite offers innovative solutions
One of those smart choices is the use of white composite stone as framing for the windows on the upper floors. The various residential blocks have a robust appearance with lots of brick and concrete. The white frames give the facades a playful character. This is accentuated by the fact that the composite stone framing protrudes slightly and is beautifully fresh white from all viewing angles. Moreover, it is a very durable material. Composite stone lasts a very long time and is fully reusable after recycling. This is also essential within current legislation and the explicit wish of clients. Composite stone is low-maintenance, wear-resistant, and easy to clean of, for example, graffiti.
Architect must know what’s available
The architect also mentions a few advantages of the composite stone framing that are less noticeable. “Think of the sound reduction during heavy rainfall. With aluminum window finishing, for example, you have much more trouble inside with the clattering of the rain. The width of the composite stone profiles prevents a thermal bridge from forming along the cavity. These kinds of things make an important difference for living comfort and heating costs. These are aspects that we at LEVS architects like to discuss with the manufacturing industry. You need to know what’s possible to make a well-considered product choice and application. It’s great to brainstorm together about new innovations or look for specific solutions. That’s why I find the contact with account manager Bas van Vliet from Holonite so pleasant and valuable.”
Great collaboration
The architect tells that Bas van Vliet again provided excellent advice and neatly guided everything for the Nieuw Develstein project. “I consider it a plus that Holonite, in addition to the delivery, also took care of the professional installation of all frames. This proves that they know exactly what they’re doing in that area as well and take responsibility for it. We like to work with such parties,” states architect Jurriaan van Stigt.
Text: Rien Tholenaar | Photos: Keesnan Dogger