'Durable plumbing that fits the bill'

Total plumbing supplier

Duravit Netherlands is supplying the plumbing for the owner-occupied homes within the large-scale Cartesius housing project in Utrecht.

The plumbing manufacturer often works with developers Ballast Nedam Development and MRP. "So when the plumbing piece came up, they immediately thought of us. They asked us to put together packages of the most sustainable sanitaryware possible for the condominiums and per housing type that also fit the price tag," says project manager Vince Hoogenraad. Duravit put together several packages of Duravit Starck sanitary ware with Mosa Cradle-to-Cradle tiling from which buyers can choose. They can then order via an online platform from the installer. The latter places his order with the wholesaler, after which the Duravit sanitary ware is delivered to the construction site. Hoogenraad: "So for us most of the work was in the preparation. Of course, we do follow the project closely and are available if there are any questions."

Sustainability Ambitions

Cartesius is a project with a very high sustainability ambition. This is reflected in every component, including the plumbing. Choosing energy-efficient faucets not only saves water but also energy. "Most people turn their single-lever faucet straight up. With that, you instruct the faucet to give lukewarm water, which turns on your hot water system. With our Fresh Start faucets, this doesn't happen. Only when you turn the lever to the left do you get hot water. To create more awareness, the lever can't even turn to the right."

Duravit is additionally promoting shower toilets as an add-on to this project. These are on the rise and are now the standard in Asian countries, Hoogenraad says. "This saves a lot of paper. We have noticed that many people in the Netherlands still find this a bit strange. That is why we placed such a shower-toilet in the Cartesius Experience Center, so that interested parties can try it out." 

Hoogenraad is proud to collaborate on Cartesius. "It's a signpost for the new living, I think. We also believe in the concept: live longer by living healthy and well in a community. We are therefore pleased to have been chosen as a total supplier for the plumbing."