Carefully fitted programme
The Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, formerly Central Bureau for Fungal Cultures (CBS), was looking to expand and wanted to profile itself more clearly as an institute at De Uithof in Utrecht. The expansion, sandwiched between a transformer substation and the existing Hubrecht Institute, had to be carefully fitted in and comply with the strict guidelines of Utrecht University and the De Uithof campus. In addition to the complex program of offices, laboratories, nitrogen storage and support areas, the existing library also had to be incorporated into the new building. The special assignment was acquired by AAARCHITECTEN in a competition round.
Expansion as an independent object
The design consists of a carefully designed and strongly independent object, which is connected to the existing Hubrecht Institute with a new glass volume, but also remains at a distance.
A perforated skin of perforated white aluminum panels has been stretched around the new extension of the Westerdijk Institute. This voile gives the building an interesting layering and is therefore mystically appropriate to the special function of the building. The skin is not only aesthetic but also offers protection and security.
Sunshading
The elektric remote controlled fold-lift panels are designed and installed by Artino, the custom-made panels ensure that when closed, the panels blend in with the structure of the building.
