Sustainability begins underground at One MilkyWay

One MilkyWay, an ambitious residential tower in The Hague, rests on a foundation that is as progressive as its design. With their innovative Fundex grout injection piles, the professionals of Funderingstechnieken Verstraeten are not only laying a stable foundation, but also the foundation stone for the sustainable transformation of the Binckhorst. "This project shows what we stand for as a company: precision, innovation and cooperation," says general manager Davy Maes.

Funderingstechnieken Verstraeten has an impressive history of nearly a century. Today, the focus is on vibration-free foundation techniques, an expertise with which the company has made a name for itself worldwide. Says Maes, "From residential towers to industrial projects and from large contractors to small-scale initiatives: clients rely on our customized solutions." At One MilkyWay, Verstraeten was engaged by construction company Waal, a regular cooperation partner. "Trust and quality are the basis in this sector. Thanks to previous successful projects, Waal knew how to find us again for One MilkyWay as well."

Challenges in soil

One MilkyWay includes three building sections: a 70-meter-high residential tower, a lower section with wood building (CLT) and a green parking garage with roof garden. The foundation? That consists of 370 Fundex grout injection piles 28 meters deep; an innovative and vibration-free technique. "This pile system is one of our showpieces," states Maes. "It combines stability with durability and provides extra bearing capacity on The Hague's heavy sandy soils." So the soil conditions in the Binckhorst required precision. Maes explains, "Sandy soils such as dune sand are difficult to displace. Our techniques ensure that the piles are placed at the right depth, despite challenges in the soil. That makes this project very special."

The green wire

Sustainability plays a central role at Funderingstechnieken Verstraeten. The company is actively working on CO2 reduction and this year began a ten-year plan, to be completely CO2 neutral by 2034. "Our machines are constantly being improved to reduce emissions. For One MilkyWay, concrete and grout have been adapted to the more sustainable requirements," Maes proudly explains. The project itself contributes to a sustainable urban environment. With 253 homes, a care center, hospitality and offices, One MilkyWay offers not only residential space, but also a green living environment thanks to the roof garden and efficient parking facilities.

Lasting addition to The Hague

A project of this magnitude requires close cooperation. "With Waal, we made clear agreements and worked efficiently to stay within schedule," Maes emphasizes. "We started in January 2023 and within three months our task was completed. The result speaks for itself."

With One MilkyWay, Funderingstechnieken Verstraeten is laying a solid foundation for the transformation of the Binckhorst. "Our foundation techniques not only contribute to this project, but also to solving the housing crisis," concludes Maes. "I am proud of our team, which is always ready despite all kinds of weather. Together we are making this project a lasting addition to The Hague."