Approximately 55 tons of steel components for residential complex

Construction, stairs, fences and main entrance gate

Van der Sluis Constructie designed, produced and assembled various steel components for the construction of the Hof van Leeuwesteyn residential complex in Utrecht. Van der Sluis Constructie is based in Kampen and part of Van der Sluis Technische bedrijven B.V. 

The complex consists of three to five floors and features 94 social rental apartments and 17 single-family homes, all opening onto a shared courtyard garden. Eyecatcher is the impressive steel entrance gate, which gives access to all the apartments. Arend van der Kamp, business manager at Van der Sluis Constructie: "This gate weighs 2,500 kilograms. We made it in sections of 3.6 by 2.3 meters that had to be hinged. That was quite a challenge. We used special hinges with hydraulic gate closers for this. The gate is part of the building design that incorporates the name of the building, Hof van Leeuwesteyn." 

Elaboration of preliminary design into manufacturable design

In addition to this main entrance gate, Van der Sluis Constructie also produced the steel gallery portals, all fencing, vertical stairs, French balconies and other structural work. Van der Sluis is co-maker with main contractor Nijhuis, who built this complex according to the Trento method. This includes many standard details, which are applicable for all building forms. Van der Kamp: "We are informed at an early stage, so we can prepare in terms of engineering. Together with the architect and Nijhuis, we develop the preliminary design (VO) into a feasible design (DO) with a good price/quality ratio. This project was a fine example of the 'Trento work'. In total we made about 55 tons of steel structures and about 950 meters of gallery and balcony fences including all steel stairs. In short: a total package for the stacked housing construction and that is exactly where our specialization lies, in the complete unburdening of
the contractor."

For safety reasons, Van der Sluis Constructie assembled most of the fencing at ground level and the complete elements were then raised to height. As a result, there was no fall risk for the mechanics and no need to install temporary protection. A great example of working safely and economically, Van der Kamp believes.

'We know what to expect from each other'

Construction started in May 2023 and the last homes were completed in September 2024. This does indicate that this building concept has proven itself, Van der Kamp said. "Otherwise you could never build so many homes so quickly. All parties are well attuned to each other. We know what to expect from each other and what is needed on the construction site. We are therefore very satisfied with the course of the construction process and the cooperation with Nijhuis."

Meanwhile, Van der Sluis Constructie is already working on new Trento projects commissioned by Nijhuis. For example, in Nijmegen, Almere, Deventer, Hengelo and Harderwijk.