Omega is a circular and energy-positive wooden office building located in the new Ambachtsezoom business park in Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, Netherlands. The building sits next to the park’s entrance and is enclosed by a green border of mature trees.

The wooden office building is the new home of PCS gebouwautomatisering. The primary structure consists of glulam (glued laminated timber) columns and beams joined together using finger jointing, which is complemented by cross-laminated timber (CLT) floors. A concrete core ensures stability. A freely divisible floor plan is created around this core and a bleacher staircase (combining stairs and seating) offers a place for consultations and presentations.

Energy-positive, circular, and demountable 

The building is energy-positive and generates all of its own energy needs — more than it requires — including the user part. In addition, the extensive use of wood captures CO2. Moreover, wood generates less CO2 equivalent per kilogram compared to steel when considering the entire lifecycle of the materials. As a load-bearing structure, engineered wood is lighter than concrete, therefore less material weight is required to achieve the same level of strength. A reduction in weight also reduces carbon emissions related to transportation and construction.

The building’s design is both circular and demountable, with the exception of the concrete parking basement. The main supporting structure, waterproof shell, structural design, and installations can be separated, ensuring they are easily replaced or reused — a material passport will enable the identification of materials for their future recovery, recycling, and reuse. The use of PVC, glue, sealant, polyurethane, and other such materials was avoided; no composite products were used.

A two-story volume

The building is designed as a two-story volume; raised from the ground, it allows for hidden parking underneath. The asymmetrically lifted volume provides space for a sheltered roof garden. A transparent facade with rounded corners softens the building’s overall appearance. The placement of overhanging facade bands vary in depth depending on the orientation — these overhangs offer solar protection and limit energy demand in the summer months. On top of these bands, a specially composed herb mix attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

The health benefits of wood

One notable feature of the design is that ventilation systems and electrical installations are integrated into the raised floor as opposed to the ceiling. A deliberate choice, the wooden ceiling remains visible, thereby enhancing the experience of the building's occupants. Increasing evidence suggests that wood buildings contribute positively to the well-being of their users: exposed timber has measurable physiological and psychological health benefits, including a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate, and stress levels. Timber surfaces also provide an acoustic benefit, absorbing sound and improving comfort.

Team:
Architects: EVA architecten
Constructor: Van Baaren Aannemers
Installation advisor: Klimaatservice
Building physics advisor: WSP
Construction advisor: WSP
Wooden construction: Derix
Photographer: Sebastian van Damme

Material Used:
1. Custom made, demountable facade system: EVA / Van Baaren Aannemers / Maarten Littel
2. Custom made, demountable acoustic wood panels: Element Breda
3. PBS raised floors: FU 6/36
4. Sedum roofing: Varied and colorful green roof, sedum plants and herbs
5. Wooden construction: Laminated columns and beams with CLT floors
6. Wooden interior walls and doors: CLT
7. Facade system: Curtain wall system Schüco

For the circular and energy-positive office building of PCS in Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht, Vandaglas provided the glazing. This project marks an important step in sustainable architecture, where innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Project Details
Vandaglas delivered a total of 465 m² of TriplePerform Alfa flat glazing, along with 9 curved panes measuring 3396 x 2450 mm. A remarkable feature of these curved panes is that they were produced without distortion, ensuring no distracting reflections, which enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of the building. This approach aligns with Vandaglas' broader vision of providing high-quality, custom-made glass solutions that meet the specific needs of each project.

Thickness Calculation and Engineering
For the Omega PCS project, we meticulously performed the glass thickness calculations, with a strong focus on the curved panes. This is a critical aspect of our work, as the correct glass thickness not only affects safety but also the building’s energy performance. In collaboration with Rollecate, the façade builder, we ensured that the glass engineering closely aligned with the architectural vision of the building. This partnership resulted in an integrated approach where aesthetics and functionality are guaranteed.

Circular Architecture
The Omega PCS building, designed by EVA Architects, is an example of circular and sustainable building practices. The building is designed to generate its own energy, making it energy-positive. This is achieved through the use of a primary wooden structure, combined with innovative techniques and materials that minimize the ecological footprint.

The circular design approach ensures that all materials used can be easily separated and reused. This applies not only to the glass but also to other elements such as the waterproof envelope and the building’s interior. The concept is that all materials can be repurposed in the future, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Unique Design
The architecture of the building is designed as a two-story volume raised above the ground level. This design allows for parking underneath the building, contributing to more efficient use of space. The underground parking is the only non-dismantlable part of the building, giving the structure a flexible and adaptable nature.

The building features an asymmetrical raised volume that creates space for a sheltered rooftop garden. This garden is not only an aesthetic addition but also contributes to biodiversity with a specially curated herb mix that attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects. This highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability and environmental friendliness.

Transparency and Light
One of the standout features of the Omega PCS building is the transparent façade with rounded corners. This design gives the building an open appearance and allows for excellent natural light. Overhanging façade bands vary in depth depending on orientation and serve as sunshades. This helps to reduce the energy demand in summer while also adding to the visual appeal of the building.

The combination of these elements makes the Omega PCS project not only functional but also visually attractive for both users and visitors. The building is a space for collaboration and creativity, reflecting PCS’s core values.

Conclusion
With the delivery of high-quality glass solutions for the Omega PCS project, Vandaglas reaffirms its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the construction sector. This project is a prime example of how modern architecture and environmentally friendly practices can come together in a functional and aesthetically pleasing design.

Through this project, Vandaglas highlights its expertise in delivering custom glass solutions for sustainable and innovative construction projects.