In the urban dynamics of Amsterdam, buildings are subject to all kinds of external influences on a daily basis: weather conditions, air pollution, vandalism, and intensive use. Especially in student housing complexes, where social interaction, liveliness and movement are central, it is important that the building is well maintained and remains visually attractive.
That is why the choice was made to provide the composite pillars of the DUWO student housing complex on James Wattstraat with a high-quality protective layer. Eggink Schilders treated these pillars with the sustainable product 2C Colour Coat, in various carefully chosen colours that match the appearance of the building and the target group. This approach combines protection and appearance in one application.
Project objective
The assignment had several objectives, which come together in one result:
- Protect the composite pillars from the elements, dirt and wear
- Apply a durable, washable anti-graffiti layer
- Enhance the modern look of the building with fresh colour accents
- Reduce the maintenance requirement – less cleaning and less repair work
- Create a safe, well-maintained living environment for students and visitors
For DUWO it is important that their buildings not only remain functionally good, but also fit in with the living environment of young residents: bright, fresh and clean.
Technique and material: why 2C Colour Coat?
The coating used, 2C Colour Coat, is a two-component system that adheres excellently to surfaces such as plastic, aluminium, metal and composite. This coating offers the right properties, especially for materials such as composite, which are often difficult to adhere to and are sensitive to UV weathering:
- Wear and scratch resistant – resistant to contact, bicycles and bags
- UV resistant – prevents discolouration and chalking of the surface
- Hydrophobic effect – water and dirt bead off the surface
- Graffiti-resistant – felt-tip pen or spray paint does not adhere deeply and is easy to remove
- Available in any RAL colour – for functional or decorative applications
The coating was applied to a carefully prepared surface that was first cleaned and lightly roughened to ensure optimum adhesion.
Specific challenges in the urban context
In a busy neighbourhood with lots of passing traffic, student bikes and visitors, the pillars are exposed to the following on a daily basis:
- Mechanical loads (bumping, leaning, sweeping)
- Contact pollution (hands, bags, bikes)
- Urban pollution (exhaust fumes, dust, algae formation)
- Unwritten communication (stickers, graffiti, tags)
A good protective layer ensures that the pillars are resistant to this load, without the appearance suffering. This is not only pleasant for the manager, but also for the residents and neighbours who want to feel comfortable and safe in their living environment.
Sustainable and aesthetic building management
For DUWO, as a national provider of student housing, it is of strategic importance that the buildings are well maintained at acceptable costs. This treatment:
- Extends the lifespan of existing facade components
- Postpones large-scale replacement
- Makes periodic maintenance easier
- Ensures a uniform appearance across the entire facade
- Is easy to touch up locally in the event of damage
By focusing on colour restoration and surface protection, the building remains attractive to residents and sustainable exploitation is created.
