Leading the way in innovative and sustainable technologies for 50 years

Specialist in aluminum windows, facades and solar constructions Vorsselmans NV celebrates 50 years of innovations in technology. "Ever since our establishment in 1972, we have been at the forefront of quality and sustainability," says Managing Director Mark Vorsselmans. "For example, we are convinced - more than the average facade builder - that Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), smart facades and green facades will contribute to making our buildings more sustainable. That is why we are eager and high on this, working closely with clients, architects, project developers and other key stakeholders. Both in projects and in our new production hall and office in Loenhout, which we have very appropriately christened 'Evergreen'."

"Back in 2000, we did our first project with BIPV cells in glass, namely the Fire Station in Houten," Vorsselmans says. "Even at that time we believed in integrated energy generation in buildings. Yet it still took years before this development was also embraced by the market. In 2007 we set up the Vorsselmans Solar business unit within our group, which focuses mainly on solar panels, inverters, battery systems, charging stations and BIPV. This last category in particular is still a growth market." With the rapid increase in the number of energy-neutral buildings, the demand for aesthetic and multifunctional PV solutions that replace conventional building materials is growing, Vorsselmans said. "Both in roofs, facades and glass. BIPV not only generates renewable energy here, but also contributes to solar control, thermal and acoustic insulation, waterproofing and safety. The sleek design of BIPV also gives buildings a unique look and feel."

Currently, Vorsselmans NV has three projects underway that showcase the extensive possibilities of BIPV: an education building, a residential tower and an office tower. "In all these projects, we are working with the architect and project developer from the VO phase, so that aesthetic wishes and BIPV come together seamlessly," said Vorsselmans. "We hope these projects will inspire the market." 

Vertical forest

In addition to BIPV, Vorsselmans NV also sees great opportunities for green facades. "An important trigger for us and for the market is project Wonderwoods in Utrecht," says Vorsselmans. "In this project, no less than a hectare of greenery will be installed in and on facades, inspired by the vegetation of Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park. Of particular note is Tower II by architect Stefano Boeri, in which 360 trees and 9,640 shrubs and flowering plants will form a 'vertical forest.' Our responsibility and challenge here is to integrate green, glass and aluminum harmoniously."

Largest green facade

In cooperation with Ecoworks, Vorsselmans NV also realized one of the "largest green facades" in the Benelux, namely for its own new building in Loenhout. "In order to arrive at the most sustainable facade, we widely researched the possibilities in the market," says Vorsselmans. "For example, the rear construction of the green facade consists of reused facade and window profiles. Also, more than 200 m² plantings provided, providing an important new food source for the local bee population. To ensure proper plant selection. we worked closely with a local beekeeper." Behind the green facades is a clever irrigation system, controlled by temperature and moisture sensors. "Moreover, a green wink are the aluminum facade cassettes with specific perforations, which create the appearance of a forest."

Sustainability as a strategy

The challenge for the coming years will be to translate and integrate techniques such as shading, ventilation and night cooling into the facade even more than before, Vorsselmans expects. "This will create a 'smart envelope' that thinks along in the (climate) management and comfort of the building. But also a shell that anticipates and takes into account its environment. Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, but a strategy and path that we must walk together. Both with the market and with our employees. With initiatives such as Evergreen, the Vorsselmans café, an extensive range of education and training and ample attention to health, safety and the environment, we hope to keep them interested and committed for a long time. Calculators, work planners, production workers and project managers who want to be part of our family are cordially invited to get in touch."