The Tourist in Breda as an example of thoughtful architecture and smart ventilation

Modern living comfort prevails

On the corner of Kapittelweg and Teteringsedijk in Breda, a striking building is rising that immediately attracts attention. Residential building ‘De Toerist’ functions as the proud entrance to the Heroterrein behind it. It is a project where the industrial history of the site is immediately tangible, but where modern living comfort predominates. The question was simple but challenging: how to create 48 starter homes in a location embraced by a busy road and a railroad line? The answer lay in a clever combination of thoughtful architecture and advanced acoustic ventilation.

An ode to the industrial past

The design by Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architects exudes character. The Tourist is not just a block of studios, it is a building with a historical character that immediately attracts attention. Pascal Grosfeld of Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architects: “The grid-shaped brickwork and refined aluminum window frames refer to the activity that used to prevail here. In addition, the design also stands out for its deep, nuanced shades of red that blend seamlessly into the ‘couleur locale’.”

With a communal roof terrace on the fourth floor and green embedding in the landscape, De Toerist offers its residents a unique place in the city. But behind this beautiful facade and location also lies a considerable challenge: its proximity to the busy Kapittelweg and railroad tracks.

The challenge: living soundproofed in a busy environment

The location of The Tourist is dynamic and central, but it also brings with it high noise levels. For the 48 homes, it was essential to find a solution where the homes could be ventilated ‘soundproof’. Fresh air is crucial, but the noise from passing trains and traffic had to stay outside. The choice of the Duco Acoustic Panel 150 & 300 was decisive in this regard. Where standard solutions often detract from the facade appearance, DUCO offers a system that actually enhances the industrial aesthetic.

Invisible technique with visible results

The success of The Tourist is in the early collaboration. Already in the early design phase (between the final design and technical design) the Duco Acoustic Panel 150 & 300 were integrated. Why? Because these acoustic wall grilles are not ’stuck’ to the facade, but are part of it. As a result, the facade cladding, window openings and ventilation units form one integral and sleek whole.

Why choose the Duco Acoustic Panel 150 & 300?

• Superior attenuation: specially designed for locations with high noise levels. The Duco Acoustic Panel 300 has a double row of slats and delivers up to 17 dB of attenuation;
• Architectural camouflage: no disturbing elements, but an aesthetic unity. The grilles blend seamlessly with the sophisticated aluminum window frames and are also finished in the same reddish-brown color, blending seamlessly into the motif of the facade;
• Durable and fireproof: The acoustic wall gratings are made of high-quality aluminum extrusion profiles and coated along the inside with sound-absorbing, non-flammable mineral wool. In short, not only durable and non-flammable, but also able to withstand the harsh weather conditions that a building in a corner location will face.

A smooth process from drawing to realization

Not only the end result counts, but also the road leading up to it. Thanks to intensive consultation between the architect, contractor and DUCO, the installation went flawlessly. By including the installation principle in the drawing at an early stage, the contractor knew exactly where he stood. The result? A satisfied client, a proud contractor and 48 starter homes where residents can enjoy Breda's urban dynamism without the noise pollution that normally accompanies it.

Rick Hameeteman of Grosfeld Bekkers van der Velde Architects: “The collaboration with DUCO was excellent! A lot of attention was paid to the aesthetic qualities and the installation principle was clear from the beginning. We would therefore definitely recommend DUCO to fellow competitors.”