Specialist steelwork for metamorphosis Bonhoeffer College

The summer of 2024 saw the start of the large-scale renovation of Bonhoeffer College in Enschede. The high school is undergoing a major metamorphosis, with the aim of creating a 21st-century learning environment. The project is being carried out in several phases, for which Van Pommeren is always providing the specialist steel works. A total of approximately 140 tons of steel is involved, part of which is intended for the expansion and part to support the existing structure.

The steel works are being carried out on behalf of TEAMWBC (formerly: WBC Bouwgroep). "The relationship with this contractor came about through an earlier project in Renswoude," says Dieter Ploeg, project supervisor at Van Pommeren. "This is where we made very good contacts, as a result of which we know exactly what we can do and what we are good at. Based on the positive results we achieved together, we were also added to the construction team in Enschede. This time for the specialized steel works."

Auxiliary steel and new steel

Bonhoeffer College consists of several building sections, which were tackled in phases, Ploeg says. "We started in the gymnasium, where a completely new installation floor was provided. To support the weight of the new air handling systems, we welded, delivered and inserted a significant amount of auxiliary steel into the existing structure. From new steel beams to auxiliary columns. In addition, we built a new steel structure on top of the existing structure and across the roof, based on our extensive detailed drawings and detailed calculations."

Complete anchor plan

In the phase that followed, the old "mother building" of Bonhoeffer College was fitted with a new floor, Ploeg said. "To make this possible, we made a completely new steel structure of about 75 tons in the existing concrete construction. Moreover, phase 3 is special. In fact, in order to add several floors, a section was demolished from the education building. A completely new wooden structure was then created here, for which we calculated and supplied the complete anchor set including consoles and wind bracing. Last-but-not-least, we supplied just under 25 tons of steel to accommodate the large spans, within which the classrooms will soon be furnished." 

Projects that stand out

Van Pommeren has extensive knowledge and know-how in steel. "With professional passion we design and realize projects that stand out," said Ploeg. "From staircases to balustrades and (balcony) structures and from accommodating monumental buildings through steel structures to taking care of complete building constructions. Because we work with project leaders, we maintain 1 point of contact, and manage all disciplines from our own firm."