Colourful facade is Heerlerheide's new eye-catcher

At this location, the building constitutes a beautiful transition between the high-rise buildings in the centre and the low-rise single-family homes in the residential areas surrounding the centre, says architect Jos Harnischmacher of Harnischmacher Architectuur. "The plot constitutes a transition zone. To emphasise this fragmentation, we designed an open corner. Creating two visually separate parts, which are connected by means of the plinth and the gallery."

Building with two distinct characters

The angular plot and the two separate building halves create a green inner area that strongly contrasts with the urban street side. The theme of the facades is based on this duality, says Harnischmacher. "We have designed the formal street side with white stucco that is applied in a consistent and rhythmic way. To create a contrast, the facade on the more private side has a very lively character, which perfectly matches the playful, sloping courtyard.”

Harnischmacher opted for Rockpanel Colours facade cladding in three different shades of yellow especially developed for the project: "This allowed us to create just the right mix of colours to give the facade the diverse, warm and vibrant look and feel the project required. In addition, Rockpanel Colours is low-maintenance, durable and has excellent colourfastness: a perfect choice for rental homes."

Rockpanel Colours and fire safety

In addition to the wide palette of colours and the lively look and feel, it was very important that the facade met fire class rating B. René Houtvast, Managing Director of Plabos Afbouwsystemen and responsible for installing the panels: "The Rockpanel facade panels are made of stone wool, which is naturally resistant to very high temperatures. In addition, the wooden substructure is fitted with ROCKWOOL insulation material. By installing a continuous layer of stone wool insulation and decorative, virtually non-combustible facade cladding, we have created an optimally insulated, fire-resistant facade construction that complies with fire class rating B."

Easy processable facade panels

The Rockpanel Colours facade panels, in various widths and floor-to-ceiling height, were mechanically fastened to a wooden substructure by means of screws and installed in an alternating pattern, says Houtvast. "Assembly went like clockwork. All panels were sawn by the supplier and then delivered in packages per floor. Meaning that we hardly needed to adjust the panels on site. And when we did have to make some adjustments, to the connections for example, it was very easily done. The panels are lightweight and can be processed on site using standard tools. Moreover, the edges do not require post-treatment to protect them from moisture."

Living safe and comfortably

In total, almost 400 square metres of low-maintenance Rockpanel facade cladding has been installed in a unique warm colour scheme. The result? "A vibrant facade that truly gives this building its own unique look and feel. Especially when coming from the street side, with its sleek and modern formal facade, the facade on the private side really gets to you", says Harnischmacher. Moreover, it has become a building where residents feel at ease, Houtvast adds. "By using stone wool for both the cladding and the insulation, De Magistraat has a pleasant indoor climate and offers optimal fire safety. Giving the new residents a safe and comfortable place to live. Something we are very proud of." 

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