Trespa NL Project of the Month (November): IKC De Brink, Zwijndrecht

Together with ArchiComm, Trespa is proud to present this award to a project that demonstrates how forward-thinking architecture, smart material choices, and sustainable façade cladding can enhance and reinforce one another.

The new Integrated Child Centre (IKC) De Brink in Zwijndrecht is an inspiring example of how an educational environment can be designed with a focus on movement, health, comfort, and visual appeal.

The original building, designed by Topos in the 1990s, no longer met modern requirements. Following a design competition for the new construction, Topos was selected once again, allowing the team to build on their long-standing knowledge of the site and the vision of PIT Zwijndrecht. Architect Yasser Hassan created a completely new IKC featuring a striking overarching roof: a strong architectural gesture of protection and security for all children aged 0 to 13.

Trespa is proud that our Trespa^® Pura^® NFC and Trespa^® Meteon^® façade materials have played a significant role in shaping this future-proof building.

For both the new IKC building and the renovation of the adjacent childcare facility, Trespa^® Pura ^® NFC and Trespa^® Meteon^® form the core of the façade design. In total, the façade covers approximately 630 m², consisting of:

• 450 m² Trespa^® Pura NFC^® Wood decors - Western Red Cedar (PU31)
• 180 m² Trespa^® Meteon^® Wood decors - Western Red Cedar (NW31)

Both product lines were installed horizontally by Pruyssen Daken & Gevels, resulting in a seamless and harmonious façade appearance, despite combining renovation with new construction.

The selected Trespa façade solutions visibly contribute to:

• A natural and warm look with realistic Western Red Cedar wood decor
• A low-maintenance façade system ideal for educational environments
• Long-lasting durability and weather resistance are crucial for intensively used public buildings
• A consistent, high-quality finish, regardless of technical differences between renovation and new-build sections

Thanks to these material choices, the façade meets modern sustainability and quality standards while maintaining a friendly, inviting appearance suitable for a child centre.

Trespa was involved from the early planning phase to determine the best façade materials and applications. The Western Red Cedar décors align perfectly with Topos’ natural design vision and ensure continuity across the entire façade.

Working together with Pruyssen and contractor R.A. van Leeuwen, essential technical details were developed to achieve a flawless installation.

Carst Janszen, Operations Manager at Pruyssen, explains their approach:

“From the very first contact, we think along with the project: from technical detailing and preparation to installation and delivery.”

This close collaboration resulted in a façade that not only looks impressive but also meets all requirements for energy-efficient and future-oriented construction.

Although IKC De Brink houses a wide-ranging educational concept, one element is especially important to Trespa: sustainability combined with practical usability. Trespa^® façade cladding ensures a low-maintenance exterior that retains its quality and appearance for years—exactly what an intensively used child centre requires.

Trespa is proud of the collaboration with Topos, PIT Zwijndrecht, Pruyssen Daken & Gevels, and all partners involved in bringing this inspiring project to life.