Concrete in the lead on the Zuidas: this is PI59

One of the oldest buildings on Amsterdam's Zuidas has undergone an impressive transformation. Decomo Netherlands played a key role in this renovation with its innovative concrete solutions. And the result is nothing short of stunning. Thus, Technical Sales Manager Werner Hulstaert proudly shares, "The photos of the completed building are even more beautiful than the architect's renders!"

Once a brutalist office building, PI59 now has a contemporary feel. The iconic 1970s building on Prinses Irenestraat is back to its former function as an office building for Philips after years of use as a school. In this transformation, Decomo Netherlands was responsible for the production of all concrete columns, beams and skirting boards. "By adding coarse Niagara Blue boulders, we gave the concrete a terrazzo look," says Hulstaert. "The natural stone, combined with white cement and carefully dosed aggregates gives the building a unique look." 

In addition, brass was incorporated into the concrete elements. "We created anchor points in the concrete and later incorporated the brass there. This required a lot of attention to detail and consultation with the architect. It is always difficult to connect something cold. But thanks to the precision of our machines and the mechanics of Wessels Zeist, it worked! The result is that the brass connects seamlessly to the polished concrete, creating a beautiful aesthetic quality."

Impressive figures

Decomo produced and supplied no less than 280 columns, 236 beams and 400 m2 of flat cladding for PI59. A total of 600 m3 of concrete was processed for a finished area of 5,000 m2. "All that concrete meant a lot of polishing," says Hulstaert. "Because of the coarse grain in the terrazzo, we had to polish a lot of material. We went to 6 to 7 millimeters deep to bring out the coarseness of the grain. That's twice as deep as usual. A precise job, but with a truly unique result."

The key to success

The cooperation between Decomo, contractor Wessels Zeist and V8 Architects went smoothly. "It was a smooth course, thanks to the good contact and pragmatic approach of all parties," Hulstaert emphasizes. "Everyone is happy with this project, and believe me: that rarely happens. We look forward to working together more often in the future. PI59 shows what is possible when everyone shares the same vision."