Architecture makes installations visible

Van den Pol Elektrotechniek is responsible for the complete E-installation, LED lighting, PV-installation with 240 panels, charging facilities and data-installation in the new building for the Department of Logistics and Environment of the TU Delft. "The contact with the client came about through Klimaatservice Holland," says John Gielen, project manager on behalf of Van den Pol. "Together we have already completed many remarkable projects, including Booking.com's Amsterdam campus. Upon completion, this was the largest office new construction in Europe. Contractor De Vries en Verburg is also a trusted party. We are currently involved in the expansion of its headquarters."

Indispensable installations

Because of the function of the new building, much emphasis is placed on safety and security. A high fence was not possible due to the urban planning principles for the area. Architect cepezed designed a rising dike around the building; a landscape solution for the security task. "At the same time, installations remain indispensable in this, of course. Among other things, we took care of the facilities for access control, CCTV and fire alarms, in close coordination with TU Delft."

Green light for sight work

The architect chose to leave many installations in plain sight. "That required extra attention in the preparation. During engineering, there was close contact with De Vries and Verburg to determine the recesses for our installations. First a test piece was made of the visible work. Then came the green light from the architect and contractor."

The solar panels are also clearly visible. "Orders are usually to place them out of sight as much as possible. Here the panels are integrated into the architecture and are therefore actually clearly visible. Thus, our installations leave a solid mark on the building not only functionally but also visually."

Intensive interaction

TU Delft is the oldest and largest technical university in the Netherlands. In its own accommodation, much attention is paid to sustainability and circularity. The bar has also been set high in terms of quality. "This relatively small building has been approached by TU Delft in exactly the same way as a large-scale project. With all the expertise and specialists within its own organization, it is logical that many people are watching during the construction process, with additional wishes and feedback on the chosen solutions. With future maintenance in mind, standardization of components was an important consideration." The interaction made for an intensive process, Gielen said. "But the interaction went fine. TU Delft's involvement certainly contributed to the final result."