DAMEN SHIPREPAIR ROTTERDAM (DSR)
Damen is a leading ship repair and conversion yard in the Netherlands and one of the largest in Western Europe. Centrally located in one of the most important ports in the world, the Port of Rotterdam Authority. The location in Schiedam has 250 employees.
“UPGRADE OF A WORKING ENVIRONMENT”
There was a need for additional workplaces, whereby the 'slottedness' had to be broken into an open space. Transparency and visibility were a must to improve communication lines. Now the 1,600 square meter hub, with offices, meeting rooms, lounge, company restaurant and presentation room, has become a meeting place where staff can work and relax in peace. The space is divided into different subdivisions by a wooden core, with a distinction made between high-energy areas and concentration areas.
Architect about the new plan for DSR
Damen's repair branch entered a transition phase three years ago, with all thirteen independent repair yards merging into 1 new group, Damen Shiprepair & Conversion (DSC). This created the need for a head office. Droogburo was commissioned to design a transformation that would create space for additional workplaces (flexible workstations), a multifunctional company restaurant, a bar and a conference center.
The design is characterized by a high degree of openness, transparency, ample opportunity for communication and 'robbery-proof' use of materials.
The building has a great industrial character due to its high ceilings, beautiful rigid concrete construction and beautiful skylights. We chose to add some finesse by spraying everything bright white and looking for the color and atmosphere in the permanent design and furniture. Three main elements characterize the interior; slender anthracite frames, large solid objects as permanent fixtures (in robust oak) and Damen blue as the dominant color in the furniture.
Response from DSR about their new office
The project was completed to full satisfaction, with minimal interruption of work. The design has resulted in a much more pleasant working environment. With regard to the design of the company restaurant, the proposals for, for example, wall stickers on the walls have been implemented, which has greatly upgraded this space. We are very satisfied with both the design and the implementation.