Reference Page / Client Cases / Werkspoorfabriek

Photo: Stijn Poelstra

WERKSPOORFABRIEK: FROM DERELICT TO EXTRAORDINARY

Zecc Architects has converted a derelict steel construction factory in Werkspoor, Utrecht, into a workspace for over fifty businesses and creative entrepreneurs. The building includes offices, workshops and hospitality spaces, all nested within this classic example of Dutch industrial heritage.

Make it big

With a building this size, Zecc wanted to make big gestures. The concept was to keep the scale and spaciousness and create new spaces for businesses to flourish. Much of the original brick, glass and steel features have been kept to preserve the character and identity of the building and the design team retained the factory’s linear form by ensuring it was possible to walk the entire length of the interior space. The building inspires with its spectacular height, inviting interior vistas and when night falls, the large glass factory walls illuminate the surrounding area.

Object: Werkspoorfabriek
Area: Utrecht, Netherlands
Products used: Acoustic Panels
Architect: Zecc Architects
Project lead: Bart Kellerhuis
Read full interview
Case PDF

Black acoustic panels stretching 15 metres

In keeping with the scale of the building, Zecc wanted a grand visual statement in the main entrance of the building. An impressive BAUX Panels wall stretches 15 metres from floor to ceiling, connecting the main entrance to a hospitality space. Zecc chose just one colour for the BAUX Panels wall with stunning effect. Black BAUX acoustic wood wool Panels form interlocking patterns that weave textures into the space. At a distance, the wood wool panels accent the black steel staircases, and as you move closer, the panels reveal wooden fibres bringing another dimension to the patterning.

Mixing materials – benefits and drawbacks

As with any large interior space, Werkspoorfabriek offers impressive interior dimensions with one considerable drawback. Acoustics. In large open spaces, sound reflections can easily create troublesome background noise. In the central entrance area, where the hospitality space is located, the acoustics had to be perfect. The acoustic performance of BAUX Acoustic Panels has dampened sound reflections from the building’s concrete floors and high glass walls, creating a homely space for relaxation and conversation.

Black is an accent colour in the building and it made the space more intimate. The tile patterns are sometimes connected and sometimes not. They are like the threads of a fabric. Sometimes patterns move from one panel over to another. Sometimes not. It keeps it interesting to look at.

Bart Kellerhuis, Creative Director.

Completing the transformation

In transforming this industrial factory into a modern workspace, the design team wanted to use sustainable products alongside reclaimed materials. Sourced from sustainably managed forests, BAUX acoustic wood wool Panels fitted the design brief perfectly. The wooden fibres of BAUX Panels soften the acoustic environment of the building and regulate moisture and temperature creating an optimal environment in and outside the building. Sustainable materials that have a positive impact on the environment, and the health and comfort of workers, benefit everyone.
If you’d like to learn more about BAUX products or discover how BAUX is helping to create future-proofed sustainable architecture, visit us at www.baux.se

BAUX Products used in the Werkspoorfabriek case

Related Projects
Fremtind OfficeOffice