Climate-proof office of VB receives GPR Certificate
Monday 27 July 2020
Climate-proof office of VB receives GPR Certificate
VB Group's new headquarters in Naaldwijk combines a sustainable building concept with a spacious glass atrium that connects the office with the business hall. Shortly after the building opened, it received a GPR Certificate following an extensive assessment by consultancy M3E.
With scores ranging from 7.9 to 8.8 across the assessed sustainability categories, the building achieved a strong overall result. The certification reflects the attention given to energy efficiency, environmental impact, health, user quality and future value.
A sustainable building with a glass atrium
The new headquarters was developed with sustainability and comfort as important starting points. At the centre of the building is a large glass atrium, creating a bright connection between the office and business hall.
Smiemans Projecten was responsible for the engineering and construction of the glass structure. The use of insulated profiles and triple glazing contributes to the thermal performance of the building, while also helping to reduce the influence of the busy A20 traffic junction at Westerlee.
The transparent construction brings daylight deep into the building and creates an open connection between the different parts of the headquarters.
Energy-efficient by design
Energy efficiency was an important consideration throughout the development of the building.
The roof of the business hall is equipped with 390 solar panels, originally estimated to generate approximately 110,000 kWh of electricity per year. In 2025, the installation generated 117,358 kWh.
The building was also constructed without a natural gas connection. Its energy concept combines renewable electricity generation with efficient building systems and climate control.
According to Edward Verbakel, VB produces more electricity annually than is needed to condition the building. This means the building generates more energy than is required for maintaining its indoor climate.
Comfort in a large glass environment
Creating a comfortable climate in a large glazed space requires more than simply adding insulation. Solar radiation, outdoor temperature and the changing use of the space all influence the indoor environment.
The VB building therefore combines architectural measures with climate technology to help regulate temperature and comfort. This includes solar control, ventilation and systems for heating and cooling.
The approach is partly inspired by principles that are familiar from horticultural climate control, adapted to an office and meeting environment.
Built for people and connection
The glass atrium is not simply an architectural feature. It forms an important part of the daily working environment at VB.
The space provides employees with an informal place to meet, have lunch or take a break. It can also accommodate meetings, presentations and events, while creating a representative environment for visitors and business partners.
This combination of transparency, comfort and multifunctional use was an important part of the building concept.
A long-term investment
Several years after completion, VB continues to use the building and its atrium on a daily basis. The practical experience with the building provides an opportunity to see how the original choices perform over time.
For Smiemans, the project is a good example of how a large glass structure can become an integral part of a contemporary working environment. The combination of glass construction, engineering, climate control and energy efficiency creates a building that supports both the organisation and the people using it.
The GPR Certificate confirms the strong sustainability ambitions that were incorporated into the project from the outset.