De Centrale

Redevelopment of an Amsterdam call center

Master thesis (2024)

Authors

H.T.A. Schunselaar Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

T. Bristogianni Architectural Technology - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
Uta Pottgiesser Heritage & Architecture - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
U. Pottgiesser Heritage & Architecture - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
P.L. Tomesen Architectural Technology - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
More Info
expand_more

Published Date

25-06-2024

Language

English

Reuse Rights

Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.

Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

This presentation delves into the comprehensive redevelopment of ‘De Centrale,’ a heritage building in Amsterdam-New West. The project aims to balance the preservation of historical value with sustainable redevelopment strategies. The research phase employed a case study analysis, literature review, and material comparison, focusing on minimizing embodied and operational energy while maintaining the building’s heritage.

Heritage buildings face challenges such as vacancy and demolition amidst urban development. This project addresses the question of sustainable redevelopment by examining energy implications. Embodied energy pertains to the total energy required to produce a product, while operational energy concerns the energy needed to operate a building throughout its lifetime. The project’s methodology centered on these two energy types and the building's heritage value.

The site analysis revealed a lack of green structures and significant influence from nearby high-rise developments. The building's context and heritage elements, such as concrete façade elements and a prominent chimney, guided the design approach. Despite the building's outdated function, its unique architectural features and recent use as a boxing school provide significant heritage value.

The final design transforms the building into a community center with multifunctional spaces, including sports facilities, a lounge area, a restaurant, and flexible workspaces. The design preserves the building's heritage while introducing modern elements for sustainability and community engagement. Detailed considerations for water treatment, structural integrity, and climatic design further support the building's sustainable redevelopment, ensuring a harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern functionality.