Omega

Situated on the new Ambachtsezoom business park, we designed a circular wooden office building. The building is located next to the entrance to the business park and is enclosed by a green border of mature trees.

The circular and energy-positive wooden office building is the new home of PCS gebouwautomatisering. The main structure consists of wooden columns, beams and CLT floors. Stability is obtained from a concrete core. A freely divisible floor plan is created around this core, with a podium with grandstand stairs for consultation and presentations in the heart. The building is energy-positive: it generates all of its own energy needs (including the user part), plus a little more. In addition, CO2 is stored by using a large amount of wood.

The building is circular and demountable, except for the non-demountable parking basement. The main supporting structure, waterproof shell, structural design, installations and all materials used can be separated from each other, making them easy to replace or reuse. To make this possible in the future, all materials have been included in a materials passport. Materials such as PVC, glue, sealant and polyurethane were avoided and no composite products were used.

The building was designed as a two-storey volume that was lifted from the ground level to enable parking under the building and out of sight. The asymmetrically lifted volume offers space for a sheltered roof garden. A recognisable and covered entrance was left at the end of the volume. The introduction of a transparent facade with rounded corners gives the building an all-round character. Overhanging facade bands vary in depth depending on the orientation and therefore also serve as sun protection and limit the energy demand in the summer. The top of these bands is provided with a specially composed herb mix that attracts bees, butterflies and other insects.

Team:
Architects: EVA architecten
Constructor: Van Baaren Aannemers
Installation advisor: Klimaatservice
Building physics advisor: WSP
Construction advisor: WSP
Wooden construction: Derix
Photographer: Sebastian van Damme

Material Used:
1. Custom made, demountable facade system: EVA / Van Baaren Aannemers / Maarten Littel
2. Custom made, demountable acoustic wood panels: Element Breda
3. PBS raised floors: FU 6/36
4. Sedum roofing: Varied and colorful green roof, sedum plants and herbs
5. Wooden construction: Laminated columns and beams with CLT floors
6. Wooden interior walls and doors: CLT
7. Facade system: Curtain wall system Schüco

For the circular and energy-positive office building of PCS in Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, Vandaglas provided the glazing. This project marks an important step in sustainable architecture, where innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Project Details
Vandaglas delivered a total of 465 m² of TriplePerform Alfa flat glazing, along with 9 curved panes measuring 3396 x 2450 mm. A remarkable feature of these curved panes is that they were produced without distortion, ensuring no distracting reflections, which enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of the building. This approach aligns with Vandaglas' broader vision of providing high-quality, custom-made glass solutions that meet the specific needs of each project.

Thickness Calculation and Engineering
For the Omega PCS project, we meticulously performed the glass thickness calculations, with a strong focus on the curved panes. This is a critical aspect of our work, as the correct glass thickness not only affects safety but also the building’s energy performance. In collaboration with Rollecate, the façade builder, we ensured that the glass engineering closely aligned with the architectural vision of the building. This partnership resulted in an integrated approach where aesthetics and functionality are guaranteed.

Circular Architecture
The Omega PCS building, designed by EVA Architects, is an example of circular and sustainable building practices. The building is designed to generate its own energy, making it energy-positive. This is achieved through the use of a primary wooden structure, combined with innovative techniques and materials that minimize the ecological footprint.

The circular design approach ensures that all materials used can be easily separated and reused. This applies not only to the glass but also to other elements such as the waterproof envelope and the building’s interior. The concept is that all materials can be repurposed in the future, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Unique Design
The architecture of the building is designed as a two-story volume raised above the ground level. This design allows for parking underneath the building, contributing to more efficient use of space. The underground parking is the only non-dismantlable part of the building, giving the structure a flexible and adaptable nature.

The building features an asymmetrical raised volume that creates space for a sheltered rooftop garden. This garden is not only an aesthetic addition but also contributes to biodiversity with a specially curated herb mix that attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects. This highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability and environmental friendliness.

Transparency and Light
One of the standout features of the Omega PCS building is the transparent façade with rounded corners. This design gives the building an open appearance and allows for excellent natural light. Overhanging façade bands vary in depth depending on orientation and serve as sunshades. This helps to reduce the energy demand in summer while also adding to the visual appeal of the building.

The combination of these elements makes the Omega PCS project not only functional but also visually attractive for both users and visitors. The building is a space for collaboration and creativity, reflecting PCS’s core values.

Conclusion
With the delivery of high-quality glass solutions for the Omega PCS project, Vandaglas reaffirms its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the construction sector. This project is a prime example of how modern architecture and environmentally friendly practices can come together in a functional and aesthetically pleasing design.

Through this project, Vandaglas highlights its expertise in delivering custom glass solutions for sustainable and innovative construction projects.