Located in Hoofddorp, this project covers approximately 675 m². Originally designed in the early 90’s, the building's interior was outdated and ready for a renewal. Firm Architects completely stripped the building and, emphasizing on sustainability, reused materials as much as possible. The design features a natural flow along the entire facade, with central volumes creating different enclosed spaces.
The goal; a flexible office tailored to different needs for now and for the future. Its layout is based on a central square with a walkway around the office. Having a loit of daylight coming in and using this flow of light to evenly penetrate in all the different spaces due to their inward positioning also keeps them from being exposed to large temperature jumps.
The design is a tribute to the Dutch landscape, smartly integrating Firm’s architectural innovation with APPM's mission of 'making the Netherlands more beautiful'. Firm explored what this vision means for APPM: innovation and improvement. Inspired by what makes the landscape of The Netherlands so unique – the eternal battle between water and clay, and the use of vegetation to hold the clay.
Central to the design is a versatile space nestled between brick walls, providing stability while honouring traditional Dutch architecture. The use of clay - in the form of a 21mmeter long brick wall, produced by Stonecycle, dividing the office - is a testament to Dutch ingenuity. Planters with reed elements integrate nature into meeting spaces, along with natural fibers like sisal flooring connecting to the Dutch landscape's vegetative aspects.
Reflective surfaces in the office highlight water's role in Dutch landscapes, enhancing natural light presence. This metaphor for water is further adopted in the design with the use of EGE flooring which is made from recycled fishing nets, with a gradient depicting wave layers. The light greyish blue marmoleum from FORBO adds to this by representing shallow waters and is very sustainable and locally made floor made from linoil and cork.
The APPM office prioritized sustainability at every level, incorporating ecological practices in material usage, processes, reuse of elements, and installations. Details include custom joinery crafted with Ecoplex and formaldehyde-free adhesives, sustainable cork for furniture and wall coverings, and 100% recyclable brut aluminium for all glass partitions. Much of the furniture, including desks, tables, and chairs, is repurposed from the previous office. Old LED lighting panels and cabinets are also reused, with cabinets refreshed with new panels and oxygen-producing plants.
Additionally, the building is equipped with solar panels and heat pumps. The indoor climate was addressed with sun shading and improved air quality. Supported by the moisture regulation of the brick walls due to the natural properties of its clay. Contributing to reducing the office's ecological footprint and supporting APPM's sustainability goals.
