Unique designs from the same design family: a brand new Intratuin

Last March, the brand new Intratuin in Hulst opened. The new garden center was built within a year on the site next to the old establishment. With those 6,350 square meters of garden inspiration comes a lot of logistical organization, craftsmanship and innovation. Theo de Git of Breddels Architects bna tells all about the design and execution.

The Intratuin in Hulst is the latest addition to Breddels Architects' impressive portfolio. Almost all designs of Intratuin branches are by the Heerhugowaard-based architectural firm. "Because of the different locations, all garden centers are different," says project manager Theo de Git. "The buildings have to fit in with the plot and the surroundings. That is why each branch is different, but they are all recognizable as members of the Intratuin family."

Zoning changes

Preparations for the realization of Intratuin Hulst began in 2019 with the amendment of the zoning plan. The construction site has a so-called high archaeological expectation, which resulted in extensive archaeological investigations. The excavation of foundations and ground pipes also took place under archaeological supervision. "Because of these investigations and the corona crisis, the construction was delayed for a year," said Dr. K. K., the company's CEO. Fortunately, Intratuin Hulst's customers were not affected by the delay. In fact, the new branch was built next to the site of the aging branch (formerly Life & Garden). Now that the new Intratuin has opened, the old store is being demolished. "Visitors could continue to store as usual during construction. Although the construction should not have taken even longer, because the old branch really needed drastic renovation."

Sustainable new construction

Of course, the construction of a new garden center is not complete without the necessary sustainability innovations. For the first time, an Intratuin has wide insulated gutters with vacuum sky drains. This eliminates condensation inside the building. "That is extraordinary for a greenhouse," explains De Git. In addition, the entire building is gas-free thanks to the use of large heat pumps and there are no fewer than 302 solar panels on the roof. The roofs and facades also have above-average insulation values. "Most of the contractors and installers are from the region," says De Git. The project did not have a general contractor. Breddels Architects was the connecting link between all parties, coordinating the work and planning. "For us as direct North Hollanders, it was a pleasant experience to work with the down-to-earth Zeelanders. During the opening we heard that this was fortunately also the case the other way around."

Atmospheric catering

The new Intratuin Hulst is about 50% larger in area than the previous store. Besides the difference in surface area, the biggest change is the arrival of a catering facility. There is room for as many as 165 guests to enjoy a cup of tea or a nice sandwich. "Of course we expected it to be a success, but we didn't foresee it being so busy right in the first week," laughs De Git. "In fact, I heard that on the first few days the director even popped into the kitchen to help wash dishes!"