The Edge: A green oasis in Amsterdam’s skyline
The Valley by MVRDV | © Ossip van Duivenbode
“If every building was to consume its own sewerage that’d be huge. Then if every building made its own power, and heated and cooled itself, and caught its own water rather than sucking water out of the aquifers- the ramification of of how people live in their own units could affect things in an unbelievable way. Ultimately, it will affect the minds and hearts of people.”
-Michael Reynolds.
In our series of green corporate office buildings, we have been throwing light on some amazing structures that ensure that they are self-sustainable, minimizing their carbon footprint. The dangers of Greenhouse Effect haven’t remained something that might happen in distant future, the effects of climate change are visible across the globe, already causing havoc. Extreme cold, torrential rains and storms, and unprecedented heat waves have left the planet and its people vulnerable. Architects certainly have a responsibility here; the construction industry uses resources on a massive scale and leaves carbon footprints that is making the matters worse with each passing day. We are discussing a pathbreaking corporate office building today that has set green standards each one of us must strive to follow!
A green oasis:
In the heart of Amsterdam, nestled amidst the bustling streets and historic canals, stands a beacon of sustainable innovation: The Edge. This architectural marvel, located in the Zudias business district, is not only a symbol of modern design but also a testament to the integration of green technologies into urban spaces. The Edge is truly a pioneering example of eco-friendly architecture.
Architectural brilliance:
Designed by the acclaimed architectural firm PLP Architecture, in collaboration with a local firm OVG Real Estate, The Edge redefines the contemporary skyline of Amsterdam. Its sleek and sophisticated design seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape while also standing out as a symbol of innovation.
The striking façade:
The building’s exterior features a striking glass façade that reflects the changing hues of the sky adding to its visual appeal. Its clean lines and geometric shapes evoke a sense of modernity and elegance, making it a landmark in Amsterdam’s architectural scene.
Impressive interiors:
The interior spaces of The Edge are equally impressive. With over 40,000 sqn of office space spread across 15 floors, the building offers a dynamic and organic work environment for its occupants. The open-plan layout fosters collaboration and creativity, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Green features:
What truly sets The Edge is its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The building has achieved the highest sustainability rating possible, earning both Leed Platinum and BREEAM Excellent Certifications, making it one of the greenest buildings in the world.
Use of innovative energy efficient technologies:
One of the standout features of The Edge is its innovative use of energy-efficient technologies. The building is equipped with a sophisticated climate control system that adjusts heating, cooling, and ventilation based on occupancy levels and external weather conditions. This ensures optimal comfort for occupants and minimizes energy consumption, reducing the building’s carbon footprint.
Use of renewable energy sources:
Renewable energy sources play a crucial role in powering The Edge. The rooftop is adorned with solar panels that harness the Sun’s energy to generate electricity, providing a clean and sustainable power source for the building’s operations.
Rainwater harvesting system:
The Edge utilizes a state-of-the-art rainwater harvesting system to collect and reuse rainwater for irrigation and flushing toilets, further reducing its reliance on municipal water supplies.
The commitment to sustainability:
The commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy efficiency and resource conservation. The Edge prioritizes the well-being of its occupants by incorporating biophilic design principles throughout the building. Green space, living walls, and indoor gardens are strategically integrated into the interior spaces, creating a connection with nature and promoting a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation.
In a world grappling with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, buildings like The Edge serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. By embracing innovative design principles and cutting-edge green technology, The Edge sets a new standard for sustainable architecture and urban development.
We shall continue discussing some ground-breaking examples of green corporate office buildings that strive to save the environment through innovative ways and methods. So, we ill be back with another glorious example of green architecture in our next post. Don’t miss the fun!
Keywords:
Corporate office buildings.
Green architecture.
Sustainable architecture.
Sustainability.
Renewable energy.
Rainwater harvesting.
Sources:
https://edge.tech › portfolio › the-edge
https://www.bloomberg.com › features › 2015-the-ed…
https://www.archdaily.com › … › The Netherlands
https://archello.com › project › the-edge
https://www.eco-business.com › news › why-amsterda…