Kwakkel BV

In order to make the monumental architecture of the ARTIS Aquarium more visible, to create space for the new routing and to guarantee perfect working conditions for the contractor, installers and other parties involved, Kwakkel BV was commissioned by Salverda Bouw to carry out various demolition works, minor asbestos remediation and drilling. A rewarding task, according to company manager Gerard Koobs. "But also a challenge. In the 1877 national monument, our craftsmanship came into its own very nicely."

Kwakkel BV specializes in renovation demolition work, total demolition, industrial demolition, concrete drilling, concrete sawing, drilling and milling work, asbestos remediation, asphalt sawing, chemical anchoring and head cutting. In May 2022, the company began stripping and demolishing the ARTIS Aquarium, removing various structural and non-structural elements. From the walls, floors and ceilings to the doors, installations, aquarium tanks and related components, Koobs says. "With this, we laid the foundation for the entire renovation, and that's somewhat satisfying." One challenge in particular was the aquarium tanks on the zoo side. "In total, we had to dispose of more than 1,000 tons of debris with small machines and over narrow paths. Close coordination with Salverda Bouw as well as our craftsmen on site was necessary to manage this process. Because the work was carried out largely and where possible with a demolition robot, the physical load was limited and there were no CO2 emissions."

Particularly on the attic floor, Kwakkel BV performed minor asbestos remediation so that the installers and other parties involved could properly and safely install their installations here and perform other work. "In addition, we carried out a large number of drilling operations," said Koobs. "For example, for the cables, pipes and conduit routes of the new Lloyd filter system."

Most of the drilling was done on demand. Biggest challenge here was the unexpected issues that an old building brings. Both with regard to the accessibility of some locations, the thickness of the walls and unexpected materials. "Combined with the age and status of the building, the ARTIS Aquarium is a very nice addition to our extensive reference list."