After a renovation of almost five years, De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) has reopened its renovated office at Frederiksplein in Amsterdam. From 6 January, employees will be working in a future-proof building that exudes sustainability and openness. Valstar Simonis has been responsible for the design of all technical installations from the start of the renovation.
The office has been renovated to the highest standards of sustainability and health, with certifications such as BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum. This means that the building is not only energy-efficient, but also ready for the challenges of the future.
Open and transparent
Five years ago, the characteristic building by architect Marius Duintjer was technically outdated and no longer met today's requirements for sustainability and safety. With respect for the original design and under the leadership of architectural firm Mecanoo, the renovation not only renewed the technical basis, but also strengthened the character of the building. The office has been transformed from a closed bastion to an open and transparent building that reconnects with the city and society (see also the infographic at the bottom of this article).
Sustainable and circular
By choosing renovation instead of new construction, 70.000 tons of building materials were saved. The environmental impact is therefore 50% lower than with a completely new building. All sustainability interventions at the office on Frederiksplein and the relocation of the gold and banknotes to another location together ensure that the renovated office has 80% less energy consumption and CO2 emissions than before the renovation.
The building is designed to make maximum use of sustainable sources, energy conservation and energy-efficient installations. All energy required is obtained as much as possible from sustainable sources. There is a heat-cold storage and solar panels and sedum roofs are installed wherever possible. In this way, the building contributes to a climate-neutral city.
Watch the video with Mark Schreijnders, advisor Valstar Simonis, about all energy-efficient installations.
Read more about the De Nederlandsche Bank building and all the design choices on the DNB website.
