OWC, Utrecht

By renovating the existing ”Minnaert Building” and creating the Victor J. Koningsberger with the connecting ‘loop’ the north west of the Utrecht University campus is transformed into a new, futureproof knowledge landscape, defined by a new entrance. Researches and students now find the workspaces which meet our evolved ideas about gathering and exchanging knowledge. The cluster welcomes visitors with its intriguing semi-transparent blue and green glass facades at the corner of the Botanic Garden, combined with the red-brown Minnaert concrete spray façade. The buildings now surprise their visitors with the logical logistic organisation and almost intuitive readiness for all kinds of use. Users feel embraced and enjoy casual, but meaningful encounters with other students and teachers.

Connecting the existing with the new, giving an upgrade to the whole ensemble technically, functionally and atmospherically. Students and staff gratefully use it from the day it opened.

Increased use with less exploitation costs: The use of the whole cluster has increased by offering well equipped study workspaces, educational rooms and congress facilities. This offer is combined with an inviting espresso bar with terrace and restaurant facilities and a welcoming in-door bike parking.

Sustainable with BREEAM standards (very good and excellent)

• Visual connection with the botanic garden by creating sightlines (well being)

• Water retention with a combined green – solar panel roof and an impoundment
• Floor structures, only 35 cm thick, house concrete core activation, piping (for air, sewage, water, gas, etc.), power cables and acoustic facilities in an innovative, synergistic combination.
• The new façade with carefully thought out slats provides controlled daylight and decreases energy use

Restoring valuable architectonic features of the existing Minnaert building, re-fit the building for future educational purposes. (More individual study places, multi-usable restaurant, improved technical conditions).