On the banks of Dutch river the Merwede, close to Rotterdam, the new office building for ship-builder Slob is officially in use. The office building houses the staff and engineering department of Slob, an expert in building complete hulls for large yachts. The striking building is mainly constructed of concrete, steel and glass. Honest materials that reflect the character of the organization: sturdy, efficient and no-nonsense. The design by EGM architects fits seamlessly with the atmosphere and core business of this international shipyard.
The new office of Slob is located on a tight spot at the very end of an embankment. One of the challenges was to realize. One of the challenges was to realize the space needed for the operational management of the ship-builder within the zoning plan. EGM architects translated this challenging puzzle into a compact building with a limited footprint and a characteristic cantilever.
The interior has an industrial feel, with a nod to the company business and shipping sector. The staircase in the very heart of the building made of welded steel sheets immediately attracts attention upon entering. The same warm rust-red plate material can also be found in the reception areas and the pantries. The huge glazed facade brings daylight into the heart of the interior and offers wonderful views of the river.
The building is compact and, to a large extent, circular. Many elements, including facade components, are prefabricated and demountable. The energy efficient triple glazing has integrated solar shading. Moreover, the design is modular and can respond to future shrinkage or expansion.
The new office fits like a glove: recognizable, comfortable, functional and future-oriented.