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KB Building IPKW

A former nylon factory is completely transformed into a unique office. A new framework of steel platforms is hung from the existing concrete structure. Vision and design complement each other in this HofmanDujardin and Schipper Bosch co-creation. The plan builds upon existing qualities of the building and combines extra floor space with a clear routing, transforming KB building into a dynamic office space.


The former production hall revealed an almost sacred beauty. This light and spacious hall contrasts strongly with the ground floor and basement, that due to their concrete structure have a much heavier character. A new timber staircase now connects these two distinctive worlds and forms the starting point for a new central route connecting all new floors.

Wooden entrance stairs and steel platforms

Wooden entrance stairs and steel platforms

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Three-dimensional composition

The new floors hang in the open space as an elaborate three-dimensional composition. These new platforms create diverse working spaces with striking qualities and are interconnected to offer groundedness. By keeping the central access free from construction, the spaciousness of the building is maintained.


The new floors are constructed as light as possible, with open lattice girders in between the existing columns. The floor slabs with integrated ceiling panels are laid on top. As a result, the design not only continues the visual spaciousness but also allows the transformation to be adapted or even reverted in the future. Through these changes, the design ensures the structure's flexibility for future needs.

Existing concrete construction and new steel platforms and stairs

Existing concrete construction and new steel platforms and stairs

 
Private concentration work areas with greenery
 
View on open meeting area in greenery

Private concentration work areas with greenery

View on open meeting area in greenery

Dynamic office

Next to the main entrance, a long bar element stretches out and doubles as a reception. The ground floor also features multiple meeting rooms and a restaurant. A big new void with a grandstand staircase allows daylight to enter the souterrain. The staircase doubles as a big presentation and event space. To stimulate movement, the elevator is hidden in a black volume which penetrates all floors. Besides the bigger gestures, the furnishing carefully accommodates space for collaboration and places for concentration.


The plan is based on a progression in privacy levels: pantries and lounges are closest to the central staircase, whereas workstations are concentrated at the ends of the platforms. The first floor features a concentration jungle in which employees can work in between luscious planting. The colors and materials add to the existing concrete with a warm-grey base tone, with complementary colors in the meeting rooms.

 
Steel stairs and platforms
 
Steel stairs and platforms
 
Break-out space
 
Meeting room

Steel stairs and platforms

Steel stairs and platforms

Break-out space

Meeting room

Cleantech campus

KB building is part of cleantech campus Industriepark Kleefse Waard in Arnhem, Netherlands. This sustainable business park is developed by Schipper Bosch to house, facilitate and connect businesses in the energy sector. The building is connected to a local energy plant that runs on local wastewater, energy and waste products. To maintain aesthetic unity on the campus, all façade renovations of the district are designed by Schipper Bosch.

 
Renovated brick facade
 
Renovated brick facade
 
Renovated brick facade

Renovated brick facade

Renovated brick facade

Renovated brick facade

Colophon

Project

KB Building IPKW

Description

Redevelopment of a concrete cathedral

Client

IPKW / SchipperBosch

Location

Industriepark Kleefse Waard, Arnhem, The Netherlands

Surface

3300m²

Date

2019-2020

Services

Renovation, Architecture Interventions, Interior Design and Workplace Design

Team

Barbara Dujardin, Michiel Hofman, Thom Zijlstra, Niek Immers, Maik Peters, Nuno Urbano

Contractor

Karbouw

Fixed furniture

Dokter Interieurbouw

Consultant installations

Huisman & van Muijen

Consultant installations

JBTECH

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