Wonderwoods 'grows' thanks to sophisticated construction logistics

Just-in-time and just-in-place

The construction of Wonderwoods is full steam ahead, on a relatively small construction site with many technical challenges. The construction system and logistics have therefore been developed in detail. Facade elements are completely assembled, including planters. With Mijksenaar, workable logistical signage was worked out. "Just-in-time and just-in-place," says George van Scheijn-del of Bouwcombinatie Wonderwoods (Kondor Wessels Amsterdam/Boele & van Eesteren).

The construction site on the corner of Croeselaan and Jaarbeursboulevard is carefully screened off. For passersby, the growing structures of the Boeri Tower and MVSA Tower are increasingly visible. The two green towers are about 7 stories under construction in mid-October, and will eventually have 30 and 21 floors, respectively; the facade closure is almost identical. "Construction flows are arranged so that the shell of both towers will be ready by the end of 2023," Van Scheijndel said. "Nothing in the preparation has been left to chance." This is partly due to the unique design and different construction systems. "For these reasons, all parties relevant to this were connected early in the process."

2.5-meter-high foundations

Wonderwoods is founded on more than 900 piles with a diameter of 63 centimeters, on which 2.5-meter-high foundations are placed. Van Scheijndel: "We started the realization of a CSM wall in December 2020. After the piling, glass injection was applied at a depth of 8 to 9 meters for the groundwater barrier. Then the construction pit was excavated and pile driving, pile cutting and the installation of piles started." The Boeri Tower is constructed in wall-width plate, the plinth of the MVSA Tower consists of different construction systems. Three cranes are available for construction. "The facade elements are assembled 'plug & play,' with only the connections between elements being taken care of on the job."

Special lifting devices

HSB and facade elements are produced as a whole and completely assembled at construction partner Westo. The Boeri tower will be finished with sandwich elements equipped with planters, including soil and irrigation system. Furthermore, the tower is equipped with tree boxes on the balconies, in which a total of 161 trees will be placed. The sandwich elements of the MVSA tower are also supplied fully glazed. Tall aluminum pivot doors that close automatically are used for the winter gardens. "Customized facade systems, for which special lifting devices have been devised," Van Scheijndel said. "Some elements weigh 12 to 15 tons."

Best Construction Site

The assembly sequence is precisely defined, just-in-time and just-in-place. To optimize the logistical supply, everything is pulled out of the closet. "We had the signage, circularly manufactured from construction waste, fine-tuned by Mijksenaar (a.o. Schiphol; ed.)." The goal is to get all logistical cooperation after digital sign-in on time and place without loss of time, with pictograms that are understandable for people who are less fluent in Dutch. "This necessary approach saves performers work. We were named Best Construction Site last year, our wayfinding was voted the best idea and we are running at full speed," Van Scheijndel concludes.