Boosting collaboration in a complex of buildings
A complete renovation/restoration has transformed the Delfland Water Authority headquarters, enhancing the building complex’s sustainability. Silo designed creative elements that stimulate social connectivity, spark dialogue or provide privacy in an open office environment.
Client
Delfland Water Authority
Partners
Architect: Mecanoo, tapestry developed in collaboration with TextielLab
Optimising a building complex
The Water Authority headquarters consist of a series of buildings in the historic heart of Delft. The architectural design by Mecanoo optimises freedom of movement and boosts collaboration among its users. Silo enriches the environment by adding an identity layer.
The front of the building shows a rich history
Family crests and water maps
Water Authorities assure us of clean and safe open water and protect us against flooding. The Delfland Water Authority is housed in the historic centre of Delft behind a facade which dates back to 1505. The family crests on the facade reference the days when influential families determined the look of the first water maps.
The various woven lanes causes a wavy effect.
Virtual world of millions of droplets
Advanced waterway systems and antique water maps formed the starting point for Silo’s research into a distinctive visual language. Using 3D animation software, Silo created a virtual water world of millions of droplets. The dramatic spectacle of static and dynamic patterns encompasses the organisation’s core tasks.
Collaboration with TextielLab
The water map has been processed in partnership with the TextielLab in Tilburg, linking individual layers to specific textile yarns. Combining different types of wool, viscose, cotton, copper, and reflective yarn causes a wavy effect. The various woven lanes have been connected to form the 50 m2 tapestry.
From high-tech to high-craft
Based on the virtual water map, an iconic tapestry was developed for one of the atria. Segments of the water map were also applied to the many glass partition walls. Depending on the density of the droplets, they offer transparency or privacy in the office environment.
“We always involve external experts if that will create added value for our clients. The elements Silo developed unequivocally represent the DNA of the Delfland Water Authority.”
Paul Ketelaars, former partner Mecanoo
The variation in the density of the droplets creates different levels of transparency.
