Norbertus Lyceum, Roosendaal: PREMIUM IN ALUMINIUM

In almost two years, the monumental Norbertus Lyceum in Roosendaal has been renovated, extended and restyled into a modern learning environment with historical accents. The existing symmetrical layout is harmoniously continued in the floor plan and masonry facade of the new building, with a glass section in between providing both contrast and connection. Approximately 1,000 m2 of aluminum frames, windows, doors and curtain walls give the project a unique character and allow maximum daylight to flow in.

The window frames and curtain walls in the existing building and new construction were supplied and assembled by Thermal BV on behalf of Bouwbedrijf Boot. The aluminum facade specialist was awarded the contract after a tender, says commercial manager Jorn Brands, who was himself also at the Norbertus Lyceum. "The project was complex in every way," he says. "We supplied a substantial number of standard windows and sliding doors for the classrooms, as well as large numbers of fire-resistant solutions. In addition, to connect the existing building and new construction, we realized complex curtain walls. Various motorized solutions have also been applied. From motorized sash windows and motor locks in swing doors to automated sliding doors, which fully meet anti-panic requirements. Most impressive, however, is the large curtain wall at the sports hall, with a sliding door 12 meters wide and windows of approximately 10 m2. This brings our full expertise as well as creativity to bear."

At the basis of the window frames and curtain walls are the Reynaers profile systems, combined with Dormakaba's automatic sliding doors and glazing from Vandaglas. "Prior to implementation, we translated the architect's aesthetic design into a feasible and makeable design for the window frames and curtain walls," says Brands. "This involved paying particular attention to combining the architect's aesthetic wishes with the functional requirements for a school building. For example, extra consideration must be given to panic access and the application of injury and fall-through resistant glass. A large number of fire-resistant solutions were also applied."

The Norbertus Lyceum is not an unfamiliar location for Thermal BV. "Over fifteen years ago, we already supplied aluminum windows that - through the installation of over 120 new panes - were upgraded in accordance with the latest requirements," concludes Brands. "During the Carnival vacations, the final touches were put on the 'i'."