Belgian contractor Besix Group has won a contract with Belgian group DPG Media and Dutch developer Being to build a 44,000 sq m hybrid timber office in Amsterdam.
The Mediavaert building, which will be a home for DPG Media, is situated in the Van der Madeweg suburb, 6km south of central Amsterdam.
The project will be the largest hybrid-timber office building in Europe. It was designed by local firm Team V Architectuur in collaboration with UK consulting engineer Arup, DGMR and Delva Landscape Architecture & Urbanism.
Timber construction creates less carbon dioxide and nitrogen than traditional materials, so Mediavaert hopes to win a BREEAM Excellent certification and achieve a positive carbon balance when the building is in operation.
This will also be helped by features such as an underground thermal energy store and solar panels.
As well as office space, the development will contain recording studios, restaurants and reception room overlooking the Duivendrechtsevaart.
Nic De Roeck, Besix Nederland’s managing director, said: “The design of the building resolutely focuses on a sustainable and healthy working environment. Most of the structure is made of timber.
“As an innovative construction and renovation company, we aim with this project to reinforce the sustainable and innovative character of urban development.”
Erik Roddenhof, DPG Media’s chief executive, added: “Building our Dutch headquarters in Amsterdam with Besix, after having built the Mediaplein headquarters in Antwerp together, is a consistency we are particularly pleased with.
“With a unique timber design, lots of natural light and roof gardens, we offer both an optimal working environment and a positive ecological impact, while saving carbon. We are looking forward to establishing the Dutch media hub with DPG Media here and to bringing together editorial offices, studios, a printing facility and other business units in the Amsterdam area.”
Construction of the project is due to be completed in early 2024.
Images courtesy of Besix
