Aesthetics, engineering and teamwork come together in exemplary circular project

Riverhouse Amsterdam

A finishing of a facade that is barely distinguishable from the existing building and a collaboration in which technology, aesthetics and execution were seamlessly integrated. The renovation of the Rivierenhuis in Amsterdam is a project for Sto Isoned to be proud of. "We have really created something unique here," says Paulien Beitschat, project manager at Sto Isoned.

In Amsterdam-Zuid, the 1964 building is being radically transformed. The houses are all stripped and renovated. Both client and architect felt it was important not to completely change the existing look of the building, but to preserve as much of its character as possible with sustainable materials.

Thinking about facade systems

Sto Isoned's involvement in the renovation of the Rivierenhuis in Amsterdam began at an early stage. About three years ago, Hemubo's calculation department called in the facade specialist to help think about possible facade systems. Beitschat: "Together we carefully examined various solutions. Will it be a system with mineral strips or a ceramic variant after all?" Sustainability, safety and integration into the existing streetscape were also considered. 

This broad view is characteristic of Sto. "We think beyond just the product. We think along in the whole process: technical, aesthetic and practical. Especially in a project that literally goes up in height, all parties had to be well coordinated. From Welstand to architects, client, applicator and contractor. Sto advises on this."

Technology with an aesthetic edge

The final choice was the StoTherm Vario facade insulation system combined with mineral facade strips. Those strips were specially developed to approximate the original masonry - and they succeeded. "We chose this solution because of its high aesthetic value and technical quality. The mineral facade strips were applied so well that the result was barely distinguishable from the original facade," says Beitschat. "Welstand and the client were also impressed."

Even during the project, further refinements were made. For example, an alternative strip with a more jagged edge was diverted to enhance the natural character of the facade appearance. "In the sampling, we always ensured the right products and explanations, so that all parties were well informed." Extra attention was also paid to the corner solutions: "With these, we showed that the system is not only functional, but also architecturally strong." 

Moving with the practice

As with many renovation projects, surprises surfaced during implementation. For example, after removing the balconies and concrete dams, it turned out that the subsoil was different than expected. Beitschat: "Then it is important to react quickly. Thanks to intensive coordination with applicator LT Afbouw, we were able to resolve technical bottlenecks quickly. Those short lines of communication really make the difference." With the StoTherm Vario system, a completely flat surface was created, essential for the high-quality finish with the mineral façade strips.

Collaboration as a success factor

According to Sto Isoned, what makes this project really special is the close cooperation between all parties. "Good cooperation is enormously important in a renovation project like this," says Beitschat. "The details are often more complex than you estimate in advance, and then it is crucial that all parties are well attuned to each other." Working closely with the applicator played a key role in this. "Because no matter how good a system is, the execution makes or breaks the end result. By constantly tuning in, communicating openly and looking for solutions together, we achieved the level of quality we envisioned."

Blending into the original

The appreciation for the final result did not stop there. Not only did the client and Welstand respond enthusiastically, the project was also shared on LinkedIn as a successful example of sustainable, aesthetic renovation. "We are especially proud of how the new facade blends seamlessly with the already existing building. The matching of the mineral façade strip worked out so well that even the mock-up was barely distinguishable from the original masonry. Even better: during the inspection by the Building Inspectorate, the strip turned out to be so well blended that she could not point out where the new cladding was. For us, that is the ultimate compliment."