Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
For Emergo, the project on Lomanlaan in Utrecht was not only a technically challenging assignment but also a compelling real-world example of the power of integrated prefabrication in high-rise projects. Commissioned by ERA Contour and manufactured at its own factory in Almelo, the company produced and delivered 194 prefabricated timber-frame elements for the two residential towers: 104 elements for Block A, supplemented by 90 elements for Block B. The facade elements were transported just-in-time by truck to Facédo Geveltechniek in Velp, where the aluminum window frame systems were installed. The final elements were delivered in early July, marking an important milestone in the facade’s completion.
“A project like this proves just how important thorough preparation is,” says Ron Doene, account manager at Emergo. “During the engineering phase, everything is worked out in detail, but it’s always nerve-wracking to see if all the components will actually fit together on the construction site exactly as planned. That’s exactly why it was great to see that the aluminum window frames from Facédo fit seamlessly into the openings we created and that the complete elements then connected perfectly to the concrete shells.”
The prefabricated wall panels are designed for high thermal performance. “By manufacturing the panels entirely in the factory, we can optimally control quality, dimensional accuracy, and airtightness,” says Doene. “On the construction site, this translates to quick assembly and a building that is fully wind- and watertight in a short amount of time.”
The project faced an unexpected challenge along the way. “During construction, the project’s concrete supplier went bankrupt, causing work to come to a temporary halt. That meant we also had to adjust our production schedule and began producing and delivering the elements in phases. Thanks to the excellent cooperation with all parties involved, everything went very smoothly.”
According to Doene, the best part is still the installation on the construction site. “It’s impressive to see how the large prefabricated facade elements are hoisted into place one by one and settle directly into their final positions. That’s when you literally see months of engineering, production, and collaboration come together.”
