The world-renowned engineering company Sandvik opened its new European distribution centre (DC) in late 2021. This DC is a new benchmark in the field of logistics. It shows that it is possible to harness innovation in the development of logistics, a sector commonly associated with cheap, short-term buildings and where sustainable approaches are not a given.
A team of 180 employees built an energy-positive 16,000 m² warehouse that generates enough electricity to power itself. Circular and people-oriented design principles were applied to break away from traditional 'disposable warehousing' - the steel construction is almost completely reusable due to the minimal use of welded joints. The ceiling panels are Cradle-to-Cradle-certified, recycled and recyclable. As they have been designed for reuse, many of the materials are ready for a second life at some point. They are registered in an administrative database of materials to encourage their reusability at the end of their useful life.
Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) applications such as non-toxic powder coating on steelwork and non-toxic paving, daylight that streams in and LED lighting significantly reduce the building's climate impact. Sandvik's sustainable ethics are reflected in this new property through more than 10,000 m² of solar panels, grey water management, biophilic design and vegetation to increase biodiversity. The building utilises interactive lighting strategies. Robotics and intelligent technology collect data so that energy consumption and maintenance can be closely monitored and adjusted for maximum efficiency.
The design is heavily focused on the well-being of people, which is a noteworthy aspect in the world of logistics. Airflow, air quality and comfort are significantly improved, with each person receiving almost double the quantity of 24 m³/h of fresh air required by the Building Decree. A seamless transition between the warehouse and the office space encourages communication between the different departments, which improves the cooperation between them. The building is properly insulated with C2C materials. Skylights provide natural daylight on the warehouse floor.
"Fantastic - this not only represents a crucial link in our European supply chain, but also one that will deliver the highest functionality and productivity and is in keeping with Sandvik's commitment to sustainability."
Marcel van Sas
Managing Director van Sandvik
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Sandvik makes use of the following materials and features that are instrumental to our Next Generation Logistics concept:
People-oriented:
non-toxic C2C-certified materials throughout, waterways and vegetation around the truck court to absorb particulates and CO₂ and attract biodiverse wildlife, biodegradable materials used in drainage and geotextiles, close to transport links, natural light, and a biophilic design
Circular design:
designed for reuse, CO₂-absorbing asphalt made with olivine and 100% recycled organic asphalt, C2C gold-certified sewage system materials, biodegradable grey water system.
Intelligent engineering:
fully electric with charging points for cars; 100% solar, ready for robotics, data monitoring to enable continuous energy efficiency.
"We know that when employees are happy, they are more productive. This benefits not only the employees themselves, but also the company as a whole"
Coert Zachariasse
CEO van Delta Development
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Client
Sandvik
Location
Harnasch Polder, Den Hoorn
Surface area
16.000 m²
Architects
OPL Architects
Development partners
Drees & Sommer
Contractor
Systabo BV
Certificates
BREEAM Very Good
© Delta Development
