Openness and connection at Green Park Aalsmeer. Focus on green

Green is the key word in the development of the new premises for Alex Andersen Holland B.V., a company that specializes in transporting flowers and plants to Scandinavia. The location is business park Green Park in Aalsmeer, where buildings must meet strict environmental requirements. The building therefore has a BREEAM 'Very Good' certification. Dedato has translated the green into facades in a dark green metallic color. 

The property consists of approximately 12,600 m2 of office and distribution space, divided into three halls and is initially a development of HVBM Vastgoed BV. At an early stage, Alex Andersen is in the picture as user/future owner. Project architect Stefan Damen: "When designing business premises, we find it necessary to first get to know the company well, through a look behind the scenes. What is the corporate culture? And how do you translate that into a logistically good and user-friendly building?" 

Connection 

Often distribution centers are fairly closed building volumes with a clear separation between hall and office. Instead, Dedato opts for openness and connection by adding windows that provide a view of the activities on the shop floor. Also from the stairwell there is a view through to the warehouse. Narrow vertical strips of windows provide daylight into the warehouses. On the short side toward the traffic circle is the office, which consists of three floors. Here, large windows and a generous roof terrace provide a connection to the outside world.

Logistics and social 

Drivers drive around the building and dock at the rear. Dock houses were chosen for loading and unloading, diagonally against the building, due to the limited space. Special to this project is the rest room Alex Andersen had added on the first floor. Because the drivers are on the road for a long time, they can take their rest between trips in one of the eight rooms with bed and bathroom. There is also a living room with kitchen to take a moment to read the newspaper or even cook something, as well as a terrace on the first floor. In the surrounding grounds, green plantings are liberally included. 

Green in technology and appearance  

The building is BREEAM "Very Good" certified. The construction team has the guiding vision in this, but issues such as separate traffic flows, daylighting and exterior shading also play a role. The installations make use of smart heat pumps (air/air and air/water) and solar panels on the roof. Partial floor heating is provided in the office and radiant panels are mounted on the ceiling in the industrial halls. In the interior, floors feature green Modulyss carpet tiles that are not only sustainable, but also give the idea of a green lawn. 

Final result

Damen: "We and the client are happy with the good cooperation with all parties and the final result. It all went smoothly, with a year of preparation and just under a year of construction. Now there is a beautiful dark green metallic building that radiates green activities."