Renovating Kop van Noord in Rotterdam

With attention to detail in various profile systems

The Kop van Noord project in Rotterdam is not only a visual masterpiece, but also tells a fascinating story. The neglected building on Bergweg - once a theater and later a large electronics store - has undergone a massive transformation. Here rises an architectural masterpiece that honors the rich history and original pivotal function of the location.

The design, realized by EGM architects on behalf of Residence Correct B.V., is carried out by contractor Drechtland Bouw. All aluminum facade elements are from Intal.

Historical background

The Kop van Noord is located at an iconic point in Rotterdam. In addition, the building has a rich history: from a theater in the 1930s to the electronics company Radio Correct from 1971. Since 2016, the building -during years of planning- is mostly known as a canvas of various graffiti and street artists.

Varied architectural styles

"Now contractor Drechtland Bouw is realizing 83 sustainable apartments here," says Robbert de Nijs, project manager of Large Work at Intal. In terms of architecture, the building has a clear dichotomy: the lower four residential floors are in line with the historic buildings from the early twentieth century, with beautiful dark red brickwork and special details, bay windows and vertical window lines. The upper three floors have a light and transparent character thanks to large windows and generous terraces.

Early entry

"In this project we were involved early on and worked with Drechtland Bouw in an incredibly pleasant way in the engineering phase," Robbert continues. "Both technically in construction and in terms of functionality, we provided beautiful solutions to achieve the best possible end result." In total, Intal delivered some 1,750 m2 of window frames and 100 m2 of curtain wall here.

Preference for repetitive, customization where necessary

"What makes this project challenging are the different connections between the various spaces within one apartment. But we at Intal know how to deal with that," says Robbert. "Because as a systems house and facade builder in one with our own profile system, we can do both repetitive work and custom work. For the Kop van Noord, we made window frames for the substructure that could run well over our automated production line and custom work for the superstructure."

Wide range of profile systems

The exterior walls of the substructure use the IT77 RS system. A slim, recessed profile that is highly insulating, waterproof and burglar-resistant. "Here we created an independent detail to enable the fastest possible work sequences and glazed delivery," says Robbert. Intal additionally included preparations for the steel fencing on the facades for the contractor. "At the superstructure, in collaboration with Drechtland Bouw, we set up good connections to the precast concrete gallery slabs, with a sound water barrier, low step and wear-resistant entry of the house. Furthermore, there are large window sections here that run the full width of the living room and bedroom, where you don't want to have an overflow of noise. So we carefully considered that in terms of acoustics as well, early on in the process." By using the IT77 RF system, not only was the Building Code met, but also the client's wishes and requirements.

Short lead time

The entire project was completed within an 11-week lead time. "We delivered the substructure glazed, which contributed positively to the lead time on construction because you can put away a lot of volume in a short time. Something like that is only feasible if all links in the chain cooperate and there are short lines of communication." And that's where Intal's strength lies: a fully controlled process, from engineering to production, and from coating and insulating to - if desired - glazing delivery.