The new headquarters of Geelen Counterflow, a dryer and cooler manufacturer based in The Netherlands, generates 50% more solar energy than it needs for heating, air conditioning, lighting and computers, according to a statement released by the company Monday morning. The extra energy will power machinery used to laser-cut stainless steel and recharge electric forklift trucks in the company's factory.
Designed by The Netherlands--based Architecten en Bouwmeesters, Geelen Counterflow’s new office building has a capacity of 50 people, and is constructed with Cradle to Cradle Certified™ re-usable materials, to achieve a minimal carbon footprint. By adjusting daylight infiltration, air quality, and indoor lighting, the office provides a healthy work environment that not only meets the needs of employees, but also boosts their productivity.
A natural garden with a wide variety of plants and flowers native to the area wraps around the office building, doubling as a common area where employees can unwind and socialize. Nesting sites for birds and amphibians are also planned for the botanical area.
According to Sander Geelen, managing director of Geelen Counterflow, the sustainable design of the new office made the most sense to the company, as it is consistent with their business principles to respect the laws and limits of nature.
“This office is another step on our journey to phase out fossil fuels. The next step is to develop a new generation of dryers that will use renewable energy only," Gellen said in a statement.
