Renovation makes iconic L-flat more modern and livable 

On the Laan van Vollenhove in Zeist, work is in full swing on the renovation of 'the largest gallery flat in the Netherlands'. Social housing provider Woongoed Zeist is taking advantage of the renovation not only to ensure optimal sustainability, safety and comfort, but also to improve the quality of life in the apartment building and the neighborhood. This will involve close cooperation with residents, the municipality, healthcare and social organizations and the police.

The 728-unit L-flat is a robust and iconic thirteen-story building with a c(l)eur of residents. It is a 'landmark' in the green development of the Vollenhove neighborhood, thanks in part to its characteristic green balcony panels. Built in the late 1960s, the apartment was considered modern at the time, with its "floating" floors and spacious, light-filled homes. The last refurbishment took place in 2012, says Jan-Willem Oosterhuis, project supervisor at Woongoed Zeist. "At that time, among other things, the facades were renovated and fitted with HR++ glass. Ten years later, the inside of the houses is also in need of major maintenance. In addition, various energetic improvements are being made. For example, the house front doors and flap windows in the facades will be replaced. In addition, each home will have its own mechanical ventilation system, ensuring clean(er) indoor air. A videophone system increases security in the 'vertical village.'"

1,080 solar panels

The work first became visible in late 2020, Oosterhuis says. "In fact, that's when we started renewing the roof package. In addition, we installed 1,080 solar panels, which should generate approximately 320,000 kWh of energy annually. The energy is used to power all the general facilities in the flat. For example, the boiler room, the elevators and the general LED lighting in the porches and storerooms. In early 2021, we started work on the apartments themselves. In addition, the storage doors and walls will be partially replaced and the elevators modernized. An additional hole will be cut on each floor so that both elevators will soon stop on all floors (except the 13th)."

Fresh and modern look

In the homes, the bathroom and toilet will be replaced, as well as the kitchen (if necessary). "All residents will cook electric," Oosterhuis said. "They will receive a new stove and a new set of pans from the municipality, with which together we will contribute to a cleaner environment. In addition, we are renewing the water and down pipes. About two hundred 4-room apartments will be transformed to 3-room apartments, thus appealing to a more diverse target group for the flat. The renovation will give the L-flat a fresh and modern look, without increasing the rent for the residents. They will even pay less service charges after the renovation. Meanwhile, the first 150 apartments have been completed. In the first quarter of 2023, we hope to complete all work."

Social initiatives

To properly prepare residents for the work, Woongoed Zeist and contractor Coen Hagedoorn Bouw are conducting home visits. "Our goal is not only to get to know residents, but also to make the flat more social and to leave behind a nicer and safer living environment soon," Oosterhuis says. "Numerous initiatives contribute to this. For example, together with welfare organization MeanderOmnium, we have set up living room 't Laantje, where residents can take a break from all the building issues with a cup of coffee. Of course with due observance of the corona measures. In addition, a number of flexi-work places have been set up here, which responds to the compulsory working from home. Another nice social initiative is the soup bin bike, where people can meet and enjoy a cup of soup."

A renovation on this scale demands a lot from the residents, Oosterhuis emphasizes. "Good resident communication is therefore paramount. We see that these efforts are being rewarded. Residents are very understanding about the inconvenience and find it worthwhile. After all, they get a modern, sustainable and very comfortable home in return."