KWR “most stimulating environment” in the Netherlands

Pavilion surrounded by greenery

The KWR building was one of a total number of eight nominated projects and was the winner in the Stimulating Environment category. This category focuses on the way in which the building contributes to improving the functions it accommodates; in the case of an office, improving work performance. The new KWR building has been designed as a transparent pavilion surrounded by greenery, with a strong relationship between the inside and outside. The aim was to create a bright and pleasant work environment, focused on flexible use, interaction and knowledge sharing. The design succeeded in achieving that, say Von Meding: “KWR shows that an office on a business site, a very common but somewhat neglected challenge, can become a very special building. A beautiful building, pleasant to spend time in, calm and transparent – you almost feel as if you’re outside.”

Well thought-out design

The jury praised the consistency with which the concept of the office around a central atrium with stairs was applied. “From the position of the building on the site to the ‘clinical’ look, which fits perfectly with the function as a laboratory; the building is well though-out from beginning to end.” KRW Director Wim van Vierssen agreed that: “From the very start, the intention was to create a building where our employees enjoyed working. That was successful and we are also especially proud that we have won in the Stimulating Environment category in particular.”