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Most intelligent building in the world The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Overview

The Edge is an office building located in the Zuidas business district of Amsterdam. Completed in 2014, it was designed by PLP Architecture for Deloitte and AKD. Known for its advanced technology and sustainability features, The Edge is often cited as one of the smartest and greenest office buildings in the world. 


Design and Features

1. Smart Building Technology:

  • IoT Integration: The building uses a sophisticated network of sensors (around 28,000) to monitor and manage various aspects of the environment, including lighting, temperature, and occupancy. This IoT (Internet of Things) infrastructure allows for real-time data collection and optimization.
  • Personalized Workspaces: Employees use a mobile app to find available workspaces, adjust lighting and temperature, and even locate colleagues. The app tailors the environment to individual preferences, enhancing comfort and productivity.

2. Energy Efficiency:

  • Solar Panels: The Edge's roof and southern façade are covered with solar panels that generate a significant portion of the building's electricity needs. The building is designed to be energy-neutral, meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes.
  • LED Lighting: The building employs highly efficient LED lighting, which is connected to the building's Ethernet network. These lights are not only energy-efficient but also adjustable based on the occupancy and natural light levels.

3. Sustainable Design:

  • Atrium: The central atrium allows for maximum natural light to penetrate the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting. This large, open space also aids in natural ventilation.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater is collected and used for flushing toilets and watering the green spaces, minimizing water consumption.

4. Environmental Impact:

  • BREEAM Certification: The Edge has achieved the highest score ever recorded for a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification, earning an Outstanding rating. This recognizes its exceptional sustainability performance.
  • Materials: The building uses sustainable and recyclable materials, further reducing its environmental footprint.

5. Innovation in Workplace Design:

  • Activity-Based Working (ABW): The Edge supports ABW, where employees are not assigned fixed desks but can choose different types of workspaces depending on their tasks. This flexibility enhances collaboration, efficiency, and employee satisfaction.
  • Health and Wellbeing: The design promotes a healthy work environment with ample natural light, fresh air, and green spaces. These elements contribute to the well-being of employees, reducing stress and increasing productivity.

Awards and Recognition

The Edge has received numerous awards and accolades for its groundbreaking design and sustainability achievements:

  • 2015 BREEAM Awards: Best Office & Overall Winner, recognizing its exceptional environmental performance.
  • 2016 CTBUH Awards: Best Tall Building Europe, highlighting its innovative design and sustainability features.

Impact and Influence

The Edge has set a new standard for sustainable and smart office buildings, influencing the design and construction of future workplaces. Its integration of cutting-edge technology and commitment to sustainability demonstrate how buildings can contribute to a more sustainable and efficient urban environment. The Edge serves as a model for how technology and design can be leveraged to create spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also enhance the user experience.

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