Transforming 2,800 m² of office space into a single open environment meant reopening galleries and walkways and creating a fire compartment of over 1,000 m². In such a densely built area in the historical center of Amsterdam, fire resistance had to be integrated into the façade rather than inside the building itself. “All of this would not have been possible without Pyrobel Fineo’s heritage glazing,” says Allard Meine Jansen of Allard Architecture.
Restoring a historic church in Amsterdam’s city centre was a complex challenge. Originally built in 1793 by Abraham van der Hart as a Lutheran church, the building had undergone many transformations over the years. The goal was to bring it back to its former glory, reopening the church hall and recreating a large, light-filled atrium while respecting its historic character.
Transforming 2,800 m² of office space into a single open environment meant reopening galleries and walkways and creating a fire compartment of over 1,000 m². In such a densely built area in the historical center of Amsterdam, fire resistance had to be integrated into the façade rather than inside the building itself. “All of this would not have been possible without Pyrobel Fineo’s heritage glazing,” says Allard Meine Jansen of Allard Architecture.
Working closely with the architect and the client, AGC provided Pyrobel Fineo, a slim, heritage-compatible glazing solution that combines 60 minutes of fire resistance, excellent thermal insulation and burglary protection, all within just 26 mm. “Pyrobel Fineo allows modern performance while fitting perfectly into historic window frames,” explains Jan Liebeton from AGC. It was quite challenging to convince the Municipal Board on Visual Quality, but after being presented a mock-up they were more than convinced. The glass installation went smoothly, using traditional methods and met requirements for daylight, sound control and overall comfort.
Thanks to this collaboration and the innovative glazing solution, the church now stands reopened, preserving its historic openness while meeting the highest modern safety and performance standards.