After months of hard work, the impressive final result was shown to the more than 300 invited guests consisting of colleagues, clients and the press. The speeches of Jan Bosschem (Country Managing Director Grontmij Belgium), Sylvo Thijsen (CEO Grontmij N.V.), Vic Haenen (CEO ViRiX) and Mayor Bart Somers stressed the importance of the Grontmij office and its presence in Mechelen.
 
The guest host was the Belgian climate ambassador Serge de Gheldere. Serge was part of a select group personally trained by Al Gore to become a global warming presenter. His spirited explanation with confrontational comparisons was followed closely. At the reception that followed there was ample opportunity to network and have a chat and drink.
 
Sustainable head office: Facts & figures
The office is very sustainable; it has an insulation value of K17 and an energy level of E0 in comparison with the legally imposed norms of K45 and E100. The exceptionally low E level is achieved through the insulation of the outer wall of 30 cm and concrete core activation. After the planned installation of solar panels the office will not need fossil fuels.
 
This office has a real chance of getting the highest BREEAM rating: the 'outstanding' label. If this is achieved, it will be the first office building in Belgium with an 'outstanding' BREEAM label.
 
New address as of 14 /21 February 2011
Stationsstraat 51
2800 Mechelen
T +32 15 45 13 00
F +32 15 45 13 10