'Rolling along and tuning in as co-maker'

The stepped interior of the multifunctional complex, also called the "valley," is executed with sliding doors and window frames in different designs. "Logistically and technically a very challenging job, which was taken up with co-makers right from the preparation stage," says Tonny Cuppen of Blitta.

As head of project management, Cuppen is responsible for all technical aspects of the work; Valley is a multi-year job for Blitta. "That's often the case with architectural high-rise buildings. Actually, we don't do anything more than join the architect from the design stage, and continue to develop with construction team partners and co-makers." In addition, the requirements and liabilities in non-residential construction have tightened to such an extent that quality development is increasingly shifting to prefab. "This is also logistically necessary, with in this case glass elements up to 7 meters in the case of the skybar; the maximum that can be carried on truck transport."

Continuous wall

The majority of Valley's exterior facades (11,000 m²) will soon consist of prefabricated glass/aluminum panels (3.60 x 3.60 m), which, after crane-tied assembly, will form a single unit - a continuous wall of triple-glass. The two-story plinth is constructed with traditional curtain walls. For the skybar, Blitta is constructing a custom element façade. The interior sides of the complex, the "cut-out" terrace facades, are constructed with an on-site assembled final finish. "First, a metal frame is assembled, in which the sliding doors and frames are attached. This façade construction is finally finished with a natural stone framing."

'The performance requirements of element facades are our responsibility'

Logistics

In terms of logistical accessibility, Valley is a challenging project and the requirements are high, Cuppen continues. "For example, with regard to soundproofing on the interior walls. The great thing is that you sit at the table with the architect as co-maker. We cannot escape this in facade construction; it has also become necessary in the context of guarantees. The performance requirements of the element facades fall under our responsibility." It is therefore logical that these elements are produced under conditioned conditions and extensively tested. "This has been a reality at Blitta for years." This spring, the Venray-based facade builder hopes to complete assembly work in Amsterdam.