Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
Constructive thinking and building with a passion for metal. That is the ambition of M.C. Kersten BV, which is also perfectly expressed in the new construction of Sluishuis Amsterdam. Commissioned by construction combination Sluishuis (VORM Bouw/BESIX), the family business has designed, produced, tested and assembled the fire-resistant and walkable windows for the cantilever.
"The cantilever is the ascending sloping side of the building, which the boats will soon pass under," explain project managers Ronald Struik and Sander Kersten of M.C. Kersten BV. "The architect had included EI60 fire-resistant and walkable windows in his design for the sloping facade, but it turned out that these windows were not available anywhere on the market. So we developed new windows especially for this project, with steel curtain wall profiles and walkable glass. The desired fire resistance of EI60 was successfully tested at Efectis in Bleiswijk."
In total, the cantilever has seven building levels. "For assembly, we developed a lifting structure in-house," Struik explains. "The windows were always lifted into place from below and placed under the recesses. Then they were lifted into the recesses in the apartments via a lifting structure. The lower windows were assembled using an aerial platform. For the floors above, we worked from scaffolding on the shop floor. At the end of October, the last windows were installed."
The Sluishuis is a great showcase for the knowledge, know-how and total service provided by M.C. Kersten BV. "With this project we prove once again that we do not shy away from a challenge," emphasizes Kersten. "Even when the client comes up with solutions in steel that are not yet available on the market, M.C. Kersten BV is the ideal all-round partner for design, production, testing and assembly. Architects and contractors who feel challenged by this are cordially invited to get in touch."
M.C. Kersten BV specializes in the design and realization of complex metal structures, stairs, elevator shafts, fencing, window frames, curtain walls, doors and even works of art. Quality and client focus are paramount in all projects.
