The Edge, located in Amsterdam, is often hailed as the smartest and most sustainable office building in the world. Built in 2015, this architectural marvel not only redefines how offices can be more environmentally friendly but also sets a new standard for smart technology integration. In this blog, we will explore how The Edge achieves its remarkable sustainability and intelligence, making it a model for future buildings.

What makes Edge sustainable?

1. Energy Efficiency

The Edge is one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the world. It has a sustainability score of 98.36%, the highest ever awarded by the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).

·        Solar Panels: The Edge is covered with solar panels, generating more electricity than it consumes.

·        LED Lighting: The building uses LED lights, which are 80% more energy-efficient than traditional lighting.

·        Heat and Cold Storage: The Edge uses a system that stores heat in the summer and cold in the winter to manage its temperature without relying heavily on external energy sources.

2. Water Conservation

Water conservation is another important aspect of The Edge’s sustainability.

·        Rainwater Harvesting: The building collects rainwater, which is then used for toilets and irrigation.

·        Low-Flow Fixtures: The Edge is equipped with low-flow water fixtures that reduce water consumption by up to 50%.

3. The Building as a Computer

The Edge is often described as a "computer with a roof" because of its smart technology.

·        Data Collection: The building collects data from thousands of sensors, including those that monitor temperature, light, and motion.

·        Personalized Workspaces: Employees can personalize their workspace through a smartphone app, adjusting the lighting and temperature to their liking.

4. Smart Lighting System

The lighting system in The Edge is not just about saving energy; it’s about creating a comfortable work environment.

·        Daylight Sensors: The building has daylight sensors that adjust the artificial lighting based on the amount of natural light coming in.

·        Occupancy Sensors: These sensors detect whether a room is occupied and adjust the lighting accordingly, ensuring that no energy is wasted.

The Role of Design in Sustainability 

1. Green Roofs

The Edge features green roofs, which are covered with vegetation.

·        Insulation: Green roofs provide natural insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling.

·        Biodiversity: They also support biodiversity by providing a habitat for birds and insects.

2. Flexible Workspace Design

The interior design of The Edge is focused on flexibility and collaboration.

·        Open Spaces: The building has large open spaces that encourage collaboration among employees.

·        Hot Desking: Employees do not have assigned desks; instead, they choose where to work each day, which reduces the amount of space needed and therefore the environmental impact.

The Impact of the Edge on Environment

1. Reduced Carbon Footprint

The Edge's energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

·        Energy Positive: The building produces more energy than it consumes, making it an energy-positive building.

·        Reduced Emissions: By relying on renewable energy and reducing energy consumption, The Edge has lower greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Waste Management

The Edge has a robust waste management system that minimizes waste production.

·        Recycling: The building has dedicated recycling stations, making it easier for employees to separate their waste.

·        Composting: Organic waste is composted and used in the building’s green spaces.

The Human Element: How The Edge Benefits Its Occupants

1. Health and Wellbeing

The design of The Edge also considers the health and wellbeing of its occupants.

·        Natural Light: The building is designed to maximize natural light, which has been shown to improve mood and productivity.

·        Indoor Air Quality: The Edge uses advanced air filtration systems to ensure high indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory problems.

2. Work-Life Balance

The Edge supports a better work-life balance for its employees.

·        Flexible Working Hours: The smart technology allows employees to work from anywhere in the building, at any time.

·        Fitness Facilities: The building includes fitness facilities, encouraging employees to stay active and healthy.

The Edge as a Model for Future Buildings

1. Replicability

The Edge serves as a model for future sustainable buildings.

·        Scalable Technology: The technology used in The Edge can be scaled and applied to other buildings, making it possible to create more sustainable offices around the world.

·        Inspiration for Developers: The success of The Edge inspires developers to prioritize sustainability in their projects.

2. Awards and Recognition

The Edge has received numerous awards and recognition for its sustainability and innovation.

·        BREEAM Certification: As mentioned earlier, The Edge received the highest-ever BREEAM score.

·        Industry Awards: The building has won several industry awards, further cementing its status as a leader in sustainable design.

The Edge in Amsterdam is not just a building; it is a blueprint for the future of sustainable and smart construction. By integrating cutting-edge technology with environmentally friendly design, The Edge sets a new standard for what buildings can achieve. As more developers follow in its footsteps, the future of construction looks not just smarter, but greener too.