Substation IJburg
Island Powerhub
As the first building on Strandeiland, our substation plays a crucial role in the area’s sustainable development, setting an example for the ambitious growth of Amsterdam’s urban landscape. With 8,000 planned residences over the next twenty years, Strandeiland is one of the largest upcoming urban districts in Amsterdam. To provide energy to all the buildings in the area, a substation is required to convert higher voltage into lower voltage electricity that can be distributed to the various neighborhoods. In terms of sustainable ambitions, the island is far ahead, and the expectations were high.
We designed Substation IJburg with a focus on sustainability, poised to support the area’s environmental initiatives.’
👻Pioneer on Strandeiland
👻Pioneer on Strandeiland
Opting for sustainability, we chose a clear design using durable, aesthetically pleasing orange stone for the brick facade. Collaborating with StoneCycling, known for their commitment to reusable materials, our project utilized a combination of whole bricks, protruding heads, and brick strips for ventilation. Together, we upcycled 121,920 kg of waste. We constructed this transformer station with a focus on sustainability, poised to support the area’s environmental initiatives.
By blending architectural quality with functionality, we enhance the visual appeal and future adaptability of our transformer stations.’
West Elevation — Warm, nicely detailed brick connects the building to its future residential context, while dark aluminium lamellas represent the machinery and technical character.
Detail — The facades are a well-balanced composition, featuring patchworks of warm brick combined with technical elements.
👻Shifting Energy
👻Shifting Energy
Embracing this transformative era, we understand that the demand for electricity is surging, necessitating a resilient and adaptable grid infrastructure. This shift towards sustainable energy sources, while essential, brings complexities in integrating renewable energy efficiently within the urban context. Our approach to transformer station design aligns with these challenges, ensuring these structures enhance their surroundings and remain adaptable for the future. Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by energy companies in this transition era, we aim to design transformer stations that seamlessly integrate into communities, particularly as they are now frequently built near residential areas.
At Powerhouse Company, our transformer stations are more than today’s structures; they are the keystones for a sustainable future.’