Building where it could not before

The way we build in the Netherlands is in a state of flux. Innovation, flexibility and smarter use of space are central in the search for future-proof solutions. In that playing field, steel frame construction is rapidly gaining ground. This light and versatile construction method makes it possible to build where it was not possible before, and offers a lot of potential, especially in additions but also in the business segment and luxury villa construction. Speaking is Roy van Hoorn, chairman of the Platform Steel Frame Construction.

“The first introduction to steel frame construction dates back to 2011,” says Van Hoorn, co-founder of BAAS architects and ‘ambassador’ of steel frame construction in the Netherlands. “In the upper private segment, where homes are becoming increasingly complex in terms of installations due to home automation, integrated speakers and smart climate systems, the system literally offers space. Installations can be handled more simply and efficiently than with traditional construction methods. In addition, large spans, free overhangs and minimal visible structures are easier and often more economical to realize.” 

More design freedom

So for architects, steel frame construction means more design freedom, without compromising on feasibility. The condition, according to Van Hoorn, is that you keep everything in your own hands: from design to engineering. “Especially with steel frame construction, this is essential. Only then will what is conceived on paper actually be realized that way on the construction site.” In the business market, the opportunities are mainly in additions and serial construction. “This is where the lightweight nature of steel frame construction comes into its own. In combination with hot-rolled steel, existing structures can be optimally utilized or cleverly relieved via a new support structure. This makes building on existing buildings suddenly feasible, without heavy interventions.”

Underutilized potential

One of the biggest opportunities for steel frame construction lies on the roofs of existing buildings. “The Netherlands has a huge area of flat roofs that are still barely used,” Van Hoorn states. “Steel frame construction makes it possible to add additional residential floors here. Unlike traditional construction methods such as concrete or, in some situations, even timber frame construction, which are often too heavy, steel frame construction offers a tipping point: more bearing capacity with less weight. This creates new development opportunities, especially in urban areas where space is scarce.”

Misunderstandings and acceptance

A persistent misconception, according to Van Hoorn, is that steel frame construction would be similar to metal stud. “That is incorrect,” he emphasizes. “Although both systems use cold-formed steel, steel frame construction does have a load-bearing function. It is a full-fledged structural system. Fortunately, we are seeing this stigma diminish. Developers, structural engineers and suppliers are increasingly studying the possibilities. Transparency and knowledge sharing remain important here. From the Platform Steel Frame Construction we actively contribute to this development, including through events and knowledge sessions, such as recently the NETwork session at the Technical University in Eindhoven on the possibilities of steel frame construction in the context of urban restructuring.”

Comfort and durability

In terms of comfort, steel-frame construction certainly does not fall short of traditional construction, Van Hoorn assures. “The thermal performance is excellent. Sometimes tighter-than-normal noise reduction does require extra attention because of the lower mass, but with simple and low-threshold applications, this is fairly easy to achieve. Finally, sustainability includes the ability to prefabricate and/or the demountable nature of the system. Elements could be reused in some applications. In addition, prefabrication in 2D panels or even 3D building modules allows for less construction waste and faster construction time, which also has a positive impact on the national theme of nitrogen.”

The future of steel frame construction in the Netherlands and Europe looks promising. “Just as once wooden pile foundations opened up new building areas, steel frame construction is making it possible to repurpose and expand existing buildings,” says Van Hoorn. “With the right partners, attention and expertise on board, we have real steel on our hands.”