In the heart of Amsterdam Science Park, the impressive Matrix ONE stands tall as a testament to sustainable architecture and innovation. Designed by the renowned firm MVRDV, this laboratory and office building serves as the flagship of the Matrix Innovation Center, where scientists and entrepreneurs collaborate on sustainable solutions for today's challenges and future generations. With its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge design, Matrix ONE is an architectural marvel that pushes the boundaries of sustainable thinking.
Matrix ONE is the largest structure among the seven buildings that constitute the Matrix Innovation Center. It houses a blend of science laboratories and offices for leading tech companies like Qualcomm, as well as sustainability-focused enterprises such as Photanol, Skytree, and the startup FUL Foods. This collaborative environment fosters the exchange of ideas and nurtures groundbreaking solutions.
At the core of Matrix ONE's design philosophy is its commitment to sustainability. The building features a demountable construction approach, where elements can be detached and reused as the building evolves. Even the floors are made using prefabricated concrete slabs with no fixed connections, ensuring they can be repurposed at the end of the building's lifespan. Through the Madaster platform, a comprehensive material passport system, over 90% of the building's materials can be reused, promoting a circular economy.
The rooftop of Matrix ONE hosts 1,000 square meters of solar panels, harnessing the power of the sun to generate a significant portion of the building's energy needs. Moreover, the building incorporates smart lighting and heating fixtures connected to the internet, reducing energy consumption. This innovative combination of energy generation and efficiency allows Matrix ONE to meet and exceed Amsterdam's ambitious targets for energy performance.
As the central hub of the Matrix Innovation Center, Matrix ONE serves as the social heart of the campus. A standout feature is the grand "social staircase" located near the main entrance, which symbolizes the interconnected paths found throughout the campus. With its tribune-style seating, informal meeting tables, and coffee stations, the social staircase brings together individuals from diverse industries, fostering collaboration and the sharing of ideas. The interior design, crafted by MVRDV in collaboration with up architecture, features lush green walls visible through the glass façade and acoustically optimized spaces, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere.
Complementing the social staircase, Matrix ONE offers amenities such as a ground floor restaurant and a bar at the top of the stairs. This social hotspot, known as "Club Matrix," welcomes workers from all the surrounding Matrix buildings, encouraging interaction and knowledge exchange. Additionally, the building boasts a 100-seat auditorium, further enhancing its role as a center for the creation and dissemination of knowledge.
Frans de Witte, a partner at MVRDV, highlights the forward-thinking approach of Matrix ONE, stating, "The building is state-of-the-art now, but it also acknowledges that the state-of-the-art is constantly changing." The flexible design allows for seamless modifications, transforming offices into labs and vice versa, ensuring adaptability to evolving standards. When Matrix ONE eventually reaches the end of its cutting-edge phase, it will serve as a valuable source of materials for future construction projects, promoting sustainable practices throughout its lifespan.
Matrix ONE not only prioritizes sustainability but also promotes a healthy lifestyle. The location of the social staircase encourages people to choose the stairs over elevators, with the latter positioned deeper within the building and accessed via the atrium. Moreover, a secondary entrance provides direct access to a bicycle parking facility, visible from the atrium, encouraging employees to opt for cycling instead of driving. These measures contribute to Matrix ONE's achievement of BREEAM-Excellent certification, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and occupant well-being.
Matrix ONE stands as a beacon of sustainable design, innovation, and collaboration at Amsterdam Science Park. With its transformative architecture and dedication to sustainable principles, this remarkable building inspires a future where all structures harmonize with the environment and promote a brighter, greener world.
