simac

location: de Run, Veldhoven
realization: 2024
client: Simac
program: kantoor
surface: 6.000m²
photography: Leonie Voets
in cooperation with:
Construction Management: Acuro B.V.
Construction advisor: Archimedes Bouwadvies
Instalations: Kuijpers Installaties
Contractor: To Build
Contractor Interior: Smeulders interieurgroep
Light: Har Hollands lichtarchitect
Garden: Der Kinderen Hoveniers

SIMAC, a family-owned company in information technology, commissioned De Bever Architecten in early 2024 to design its new headquarters in a former technical vocational school building. The existing building, dating from 2009, was constructed using raw, robust materials such as brick, wood, and tiles. It includes valuable architectural elements such as a interior patio with natural light, high ceilings, and a mezzanine — all of which were retained and reimagined in a contemporary and modern design made specifically for SIMAC.

The design philosophy focused on preserving valuable spatial elements while creating new sightlines and openings within the building. Key principles included ensuring daylight in all areas, connecting the various workspaces through visual connections, and emphasizing the patio as a key meeting place. This central role of the patio was further reinforced by the addition of two red staircases, playfully encouraging interaction between colleagues.

In addition to the spatial transformation, De Bever Architecten also designed the interior. A neutral base of white and grey tones was chosen — a calm background for the new design elements and the existing rough, robust materials. Within this context, new pantries, the striking red staircases, mobile meeting rooms, and playful wall patterns were strategically added to reinforce and reflect SIMAC’s identity.