UNStudio among firms selected to create state-of-the art congress facility

TenderStream member UNStudio is part of the winning Elysion consortium selected for the design, build, finance and operation of a landmark congress and conference centre in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. The city authorities decided that a new, state-of-the-art centre would enhance the international standing of Brainport Eindhoven, one Europe's leading innovative technology regions. 

The consortium proposed extending the current Van der Valk congress and event site, which also houses hotel and restaurant facilities. The design challenge was to create a landmark building, while allowing the original centre to continue operating during the construction process. This resulted in a unique design solution that situates the extension next to the existing building, while placing the auditorium above. 

A foyer containing wooden staircases and vertical green gardens functions as the main connector between different levels, while housing areas for both working and relaxing. The 1,500-seat auditorium can be divided into four separate rooms, with retractable seating making it possible for one of the auditoria to be used as a banqueting hall. In addition, a recording studio opens up the opportunity to host hybrid online and live events.

The project’s green ambition is expressed in the application for a BREEAM Outstanding rating. The surrounding landscape, Genneper Parken, is integrated into the structure through green space on the roof and under the elevated building, while part of the existing hotel will be demolished to strengthen the ecology of an adjoining waterway. The centre’s facade is principally made from wood and glass, with surfaces that absorb nitrogen dioxide - a new nano-technology that can capture pollutants. The design includes the largest regional charging station for electrical cars, with a sustainable transport hub offering green alternatives for travel to Eindhoven city centre.

Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research

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