Brand new but repurposed: the redevelopment of Dulon College

Willem ten Ham founded W. ten Ham Constructie bv 50 years ago. Starting with welding and repairs for agricultural companies, the company grew into a reliable partner for Dutch construction companies. Today, the company is still involved in innovation, such as in the redevelopment of the Dulon College in Ede, together with construction company Rots Bouw.

"We provided the complete steel structure for the building," Ten Ham explains. "That took some doing, because the architect wanted something different from ordinary roof girders. Those normally consist of one beam, but we developed three-dimensional roof trusses for this project. The beams now consist of three box sections that are connected diagonally. You never come across a design like this!"

Fortunately, the hard work was not in vain, Ten Ham explains. "It has become a very special roof that lets in a lot of light. Ideal for a school building, of course." The challenge in this project was not only in the construction of the roof, but also in the design. "Often you see that the steel construction is completely concealed, so that it is invisible. But in this design, the steelwork was actually visible. Then, of course, you have to finish it much nicer so that it has a good look."

Reused where possible

Dulon College now again has a modern and climate-neutral school building, but the soul of the building has not been lost. "That's because an awful lot has been reused from the existing building. Then you do feel that that history remains a bit intact. With the new teaching space and the focus on daylight and greenery, it has become a beautiful redevelopment."

Given the sustainable nature of the project, the choice of W. ten Ham Constructie was logical. "We are also located in Ede ourselves, close to the construction site. In projects with a lot of assembly, like here, that makes communication very pleasant. After all, you go back and forth in no time. But more importantly: our trucks with steel did not have to travel far. By using local companies, you still reduce the CO2 footprint of the project." 

"In the end, the cooperation with Rots Bouw again went very smoothly, and we enjoyed working on this project. Building is something you do together!" concludes Ten Ham.