The Liander Westpoort headquarters, designed by De Zwarte Hond and built by Dura Vermeer, is a pioneering example of timber-based, sustainable construction. Located in Amsterdam’s Westpoort district, this 21,000 sqm energy-neutral complex serves as a regional hub for the Dutch energy network company Alliander, accommodating 700 employees across offices, workshops, warehouses, and training facilities.
Timber as the Core Material
At the heart of the project is the extensive use of timber, particularly in the office building and training facilities, where Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) are used as the primary structural elements. This decision significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint, promotes biophilic design principles, and enhances occupant well-being by creating a warm, inviting workspace. The exposed timber interiors foster a natural aesthetic, improving air quality and acoustics while reinforcing the project’s sustainability goals.
Sustainable and Circular Design
Liander Westpoort was developed with circular construction principles, ensuring that materials can be reused or repurposed in the future. The parking structure, for example, is fully demountable and expandable, reflecting a modular and scalable approach to urban development. The extensive use of locally sourced timber also contributes to the project’s low-carbon footprint, with the timber structure alone sequestering approximately 560 tonnes of CO₂.
Timber Construction for Energy Efficiency
The project is gas-free and energy-neutral, incorporating 3,435 sqm of solar panels and thermal energy storage systems to optimize energy efficiency. The wooden structure enhances insulation properties, reducing energy demands for heating and cooling while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Collaboration in Timber Engineering and Design
To achieve its ambitious sustainability goals, the project brought together leading experts in timber engineering and circular construction:
- Structural Engineering: IMd Raadgevende Ingenieurs
- Sustainability Consultancy: Copper8
- Building Physics and Fire Safety: DGMR
- Interior Design: COARE Architectuur
- Landscape Design: De Urbanisten
- Construction: Dura Vermeer
A Model for Future Timber Architecture
By prioritizing timber over conventional materials, Liander Westpoort showcases how mass timber construction can redefine large-scale commercial and industrial buildings. The project demonstrates the scalability and adaptability of engineered timber, setting a new benchmark for sustainable architecture in the Netherlands.
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