Site and purpose

The Netherlands holds the greenest building in the world. This building is “The Edge” located in Amsterdam. This North facing structure is covered in glass and is deemed the highest sustainable building on the planet. The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) awarded Edge a record sustainability score of 98.4%. The edge was completed in 2018 and designed by PLP Architects. Goals for the building were to create an office building that’s highly sustainable and also to create an office building that meets the constant advancement of technology. It was found that for densely populated areas, like a city district in Amsterdam, the quantity of rainwater that can be harvested from both built and paved surfaces equals only about half the amount that is required for the inhabitants (Hofman 2018). One special design move “The Edge” decided to incorporate within the building is their use of rainwater collection and use. For instance, A massive concrete tib in the back of the parking garage gathers the rainwater used to flush the building’s toilets and water the gardens (Randall 2015). 

The Edge building in Amsterdam, located at 5 Evert van de Beekstraat, is a cutting-edge, sustainable office complex that integrates advanced technology and eco-friendly design. Situated in the Zuidas district, Amsterdam’s financial and business hub, the building offers an innovative work environment with a focus on energy efficiency, well-being, and connectivity. The site is close to major transport links, including Schiphol Airport and central train stations, making it a key location for business and international collaboration. The Edge is known for its smart building technologies, such as an extensive use of sensors, adaptive lighting, and personalized workspaces. The building's sustainable features also include a green roof and energy-saving systems, contributing to its recognition as one of the most sustainable office buildings in the world.