A matter of flexibility

Order for sheet piling Van Gendt Hallen leads to extensive work

The involvement of Heicombinatie SPS in the transformation of the Van Gendt Hallen has had a curious course, to say the least. It began with a small assignment: "My partner Johan Schilder was asked if we could install a sheet pile wall for the construction of an inland harbor on the VOC quay," explains general manager Gert-Jan Potveer. "That was all." More than two years on, the Grootschermer-based company is still active there, with six to 10 men at work continuously.

"After a good discussion between the two parties, it turned out that we could accomplish much more work there, and we weren't even the first to start with the sheet piling," continued Potveer. "In the 13,000 square foot building, which we completely re-founded with more than 1,300 screw injection piles, we did an incredible amount of work. In addition to the sheet piling and pile driving, the soil was remediated to make way for the new concrete works we created, such as the bicycle basement that generates additional volume and usable surface area, the dock for the tour boat, the technical area, the parking garage with concrete driveway and all the concrete floors in the five halls. This includes both the first floor and first-floor floors for the apartments and offices. To regulate the movement in the concrete in the huge floor areas, dilatation profiles were installed. The very strong, reinforced joint provides excellent load transfer, which is more than necessary, since several floors will rest on the first floor."

Pandora's Box

SPS is known for its flexible attitude. "Owner of Van Gendt Hallen, Eduard Zanen, himself acts as chef d'equipe of a complete construction team without a general contractor," Potveer said. "The old building now houses the ideas that sprung from his mind. Everything built there was conceived by him. But as is usually the case with old buildings, many surprises emerge there like a Pandora's Box. Because of the many activities and acquired knowledge within our company, we are used to operating without a contractor. We always come to a solution. That's the reason it didn't stop at just one sheet pile."

Stairs

The new Van Gendt Hallen will also house a museum, and as befits true artists, that museum is a work of art in itself. "In front of the museum, we have installed a giant staircase made of concrete. We are now at the stage where all the designs are becoming visible, such as the museum's staircase, which will serve as a grandstand with seating for art lovers. The homes and offices are also starting to take visible shape. It's great to be able to work on that." 

Respect

The general manager of SPS expects to be busy on the East Island for some time. "The completion date stands, but before that happens we will have our hands full with the final construction work. I already dare to say that this is a highly innovative transformation of a beautiful monumental Amsterdam building. Deep respect for the entire team that has brought this about together. And the sheet piling that started it all? We pulled that out in March. The quay has been restored to its former glory. Let the first visitors come. They will be amazed."