NACH (New Amsterdam Court House)
In June 2019, we were approached to resolve a problem that arose during the development of the construction of the NACH. The courthouse in Amsterdam on the Parnassusweg. There were wishes and also requirements regarding upholstery for the walls in all courtrooms. It concerned both fire safety and acoustics and of course a suitable appearance.
The question was whether we could make a suitable product for this. At that time, years ago, we were already developing acoustic panels with a leather finish. The intended results were not sufficient to participate in this major project. Fortunately, the construction of the very complex building, which had to meet many requirements, provided room to combine the development of acoustic panels with the realization.
“More than 3,000 m2
walls divided over 25 courtrooms”
Meeting the requested value for the fire class an acoustics. We have shown a number of options, including a frame with straight, leather-covered shapes, reminiscent of a radiator. While fine-tuning the latter variant, the idea arose to make the slats semi-circular, as if they were halved broomsticks. And that was the beginning of the product that can now be found in our collection under the name Broom.
The great test
Back to NACH; our acoustic panels have been extensively tested and approved. And we can proudly say: the result was above expectations. We subsequently set up a test room. Despite the expected standard dimensions, very little turned out to be standard. Elements such as doors, home automation and the many spy-holes in the doors ensured that ‘standard’ was increasingly replaced by ‘customization’. We have been able to test our product thoroughly and have been able to make improvements based on this experience. Something we are quite familiar with at Alphenberg. We continue to innovate.
And then at last – a final agreement on the completed project. And with due pride we say: with compliments from the contractor.
What has this project brought us
Developing a product with such high expectations is simply very exciting. But in the end we were able to create something that adds a completely new division to the concept of acoustics. Applicable to both walls and ceilings. And on top of that, the notion that an acoustic solution is both effective and pleasing to the eye… that is a quality we are proud of at Alphenberg.
Products used in this project
Broom Suède Mouton
Acoustic wall covering