A construction company that builds on character is de Vries en Verburg. On paper there are many construction companies that claim to be circular and sustainable. However, the reality is often stubborn and in the building practice often manifests itself in waste and the use of materials containing toxic substances. Unused and used materials are thrown away on building sites and end up in the incinerators via containers. There must be another way, thought Timo Stuij, plan developer at De Vries en Verburg for the renovation and redesign of the office in Stolwijk.

CIRCULAR FURNISHING, WHERE TO START?

Where to start if you want to build circularly was the question. Just first with yourself in your own office and in steps. Always making a step in the right direction. During the renovation a lot of attention was paid to comfort, energy savings and use of materials. PCM ceilings, biodynamic lighting, lots of plants and surprising material choices.

IMPORTANT TO APPLY CIRCULAR MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS

For the design of the office, it was important to apply circular materials and products. On the one hand because of the direct impact, but more importantly to create awareness among colleagues and relations. In many cases, materials can be returned to a higher level in the chain than we suspect.

MEETINGS AT A HIGH LEVEL WITH THE TABLE AND BAR STOOLS MADE OF USED CONCRETE PLYWOOD

A high-profile high table and bar stools were made with used concrete plywood from the construction site. The furniture is remountable on the basis of friction joints, without glue, screws or nails. Each part can be replaced infinitely so the lifespan is very long. The look is meaningful and recognizable to any builder. And the identity of the construction site is reflected in our office environment.

ACOUSTIC PANELS A JEWEL TO THE EYE AND MADE FROM WASTE

Studio Wae, along with EverUse, designed circular insulation, acoustic panels that look spectacular, absorb sound and provide acoustic comfort. The panels are made from carpet tile waste and cellulose waste (CO2).    

3D PRINTED PLANT POTS MADE FROM OLD REFRIGERATORS

The inside of 4 refrigerators were transformed into a beautiful circular plant pot. The pot contains nine kilos of pure raw material made from 100% recycled content. When de Vries en Verburg no longer needs the pots, TRIBOO takes them back and makes them into a chair, table or lamp again.

ALL OF US INVOLVED ALL OF US PROUD

There are also chairs, lamps and wall coverings made from recycled PET bottles and a wall made from scrap wood. When you look at it in retrospect, we did make quite a few steps. We are all proud of that.

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