The design competition organized by Platowood in 2021 resulted in an aesthetic landmark at the sustainable Cleantech Park Arnhem. The façade design in Platowood Fraké was created by Weeber Architecten. They developed a system based on consistent principles that can be used to create entirely different buildings each time, naming the concept ‘Platowood Twist’.
The letters of the logo are subtly integrated into the façade. Depending on your viewpoint, the time of day, and the light conditions, shadows are cast onto the cross planks. This means the façade—and the appearance of the office—changes continuously.
Bart Raymann:
”We want to challenge architects to ‘play’ with our wood, to invent innovative applications that add value to a space. That’s how the idea of a design competition came about. It’s wonderful to see what’s possible with our wood. We’re very happy with the result—an innovative calling card for our company. Plus, we now have our own reference project where we can observe and document the weathering process up close.”
The design had to be unique and expressive, yet subtle in character. To achieve a refined corner detailing of the logo, half letters were created at the corners. The left side end was done in a fixed rhythm, while the right side features a rising curve that marks the entrance.
The façade follows a fixed rhythm of alternating joints and solid cross planks in random lengths for optimal material efficiency. At the locations of the logo letters, the open joints were closed with additional cross planks. The system is based on an open façade cladding. Behind it sits a black membrane and black battening. Weeber Architecten experimented with various plank widths to optimize the 3D effect, ultimately selecting planks 90 mm wide.
The Pavilion façade was completed in September 2022. The weathered photos were taken exactly one year later and show the effect of sun and rain on the wood. Sandra Weeber, architect and co-designer of the façade, finds the weathered result beautiful: “The Pavilion has become even more powerful.”
Several parties were involved in the execution: ZND Nedicom, Installatiebedrijf Berkhoff, Van den Brink & Schumacher, Weijers Platte Daken, VIC Landscapes.
