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Modern design, maximum privacy
Almax-EasyLab is a world leader in the production of high-pressure tools and solutions for scientific research. The original company building was erected for Almax industries in 2003 in collaboration with architechture firm SOM Architects in the form of a workshop with office and residential building on the WVI sites in Diksmuide. After a merger in 2013, the building soon became too small. Almax-Easylab needed more spacious offices and a second production space. They again called on the same architectural firm for this.
To create the necessary space, it was decided to connect the old and new building by a smaller intermediate building with only one storey. From the design phase until the final delivery in April 2019, special attention was paid to functionality and energy efficiency of the building. For example, floor heating was provided throughout as well as a condensing gas boiler, PV panels, balanced ventilation, etc.
The same energetic and functional objectives can be found in the facade. For the façade, DucoSun Cubic aluminum louvers were installed on two levels, giving the building a semi-transparent and contemporary character. Architecturally, it is a real treat for the eye. In addition, the louvers act as camouflage which allowed the window arrangement to be kept purely functional.
Bert Laridon, architect at SOM Architects explains: "We had already worked with DUCO in several projects for both private homes, apartments, commercial buildings, etc. For this project too, we did not hesitate for long to work with them again for the design and detailing of the curtain wall, as well as the installation of the necessary ventilation techniques."
The choice of exterior blinds was driven by two requirements: architectural design and maximum privacy. In addition to the modern design, the aluminum slats also reduce the amount of visibility into the building's offices, enhancing the privacy of office workers.
At the same time, natural daylight is maintained for the office workers and the slats provide a beautiful look for the building as a whole.
Says Bert Laridon, "The idea behind the design was to create a kind of 'simple box.' It became a functional and budget-friendly building that is architecturally attractive at the same time. Through the collaboration with DUCO, we succeeded with verve. Thanks to the DucoSun Cubic louvers, the facade has become a real eye-catcher. At the same time, the ventilation in the buildings ensures an optimal indoor climate. The reactions we received are therefore very positive."
