Accoya Wood: The Ideal Choice for Coastal Architecture
The SILT project, featuring a hotel and casino with a striking wooden façade, stands as a testament to both performance and sustainability. Designed by renowned architectural firms ZJA, OZ, DELVA, and Bureau Bouwtechniek, this landmark structure spans 39,200m² along the picturesque coastline from Oostende to Westende. Constructed by Furnibo and Democo, the SILT building is a prominent example of how Accoya wood can excel in challenging coastal environments.
A Durable Façade with Accoya Glue Laminated Beams
For the casino’s façade, Accoya glue laminated beams were selected due to their exceptional durability and resistance to harsh coastal conditions. The decision to use Accoya was driven by the need for a material that could withstand the test of time while remaining resilient to environmental stresses. With a durability class 1 rating, Accoya is renowned for its minimal shrinkage and swelling, and it comes with a 50-year warranty for above-ground use.
Key Contributors and Challenges
Main contractor HESS TIMBER, known for their expertise in timber engineering and their role in projects like Google’s HQ in King’s Cross, London, played a crucial role in the SILT project. The casino’s façade, measuring 42 meters by 33 meters and standing 25 meters high, utilized 115m³ of glue laminated Accoya. The use of natural materials was integral to the project, with Hasslacher Holzbauteile and Arwo Bouw ensuring that prefabricated components were efficiently assembled on site.
The installation presented several challenges, including limited accessibility and workspace due to ongoing construction activities. However, the relatively low weight of the Accoya components proved advantageous, facilitating easier handling and installation despite the constraints.
Why Accoya Wood Was the Perfect Fit
Accoya wood was chosen for the SILT project due to its unparalleled longevity and durability, particularly suited for coastal environments. Its resistance to salt and moisture is backed by a durability class 1 rating and a 50-year warranty for above-ground applications. The patented acetylation process used to modify Accoya enhances its natural properties, reducing water absorption, shrinkage, and swelling, while also increasing resistance to rot and pests. Additionally, Accoya is FSC® and Cradle to Cradle® Gold certified, underscoring its environmental credentials. The efficient design of the project benefited from the lightweight nature of Accoya components, which streamlined transport and installation, leading to the project’s completion within a year.
