Commissioned by the Dutch Central Government Real Estate Agency (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf), the Justice Office Zaanstad represents a new benchmark for sustainable and healthy government buildings in the Netherlands. Designed by Studio PROTOTYPE in collaboration with The ArchiTech Company and built by BINX Smartility West, the 7,650-square-metre complex accommodates offices, meeting rooms, and training facilities for the Ministry of Justice.
Structure and material strategy
The building is constructed almost entirely from cross-laminated timber (CLT), making it the largest CLT structure commissioned by the Central Government Real Estate Agency. The extensive use of timber contributes to significant carbon storage, reduced embodied energy, and faster on-site assembly. The modular structural system enables future adaptability and simplifies end-of-life material recovery. Concrete use is minimised and limited to the foundations for stability in the soft peat soil of Westzaan.
Architectural and environmental integration
The design draws direct inspiration from the surrounding peat polder landscape, characterised by long, open views and green ribbons of vegetation. The plan is organised around three light courts that bring daylight deep into the interior and strengthen the connection with the surroundings. These courtyards improve indoor air quality and offer employees visual and physical access to nature.
The façade design, developed with The ArchiTech Company, incorporates parametrically designed louvres that balance privacy, daylight, and solar control. The aluminium system adjusts orientation and density according to exposure, reducing glare and solar gain while maintaining outward visibility. The result is a controlled, comfortable working environment that meets energy targets.
Energy and environmental performance
The building is Paris-proof, aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement, and designed to be energy-generating through the integration of photovoltaic panels and a high-performance envelope. The combination of CLT structure, optimised glazing ratios, and passive shading reduces operational energy use. Natural ventilation and mechanical systems work together to maintain indoor air quality and thermal comfort.
The nature-inclusive design supports local biodiversity through planted roofs, permeable surfaces, and landscaping with native species. The courtyards and surrounding grounds function as microhabitats, enhancing ecological value while improving stormwater management and mitigating heat island effects.
