The winners of the 13th edition of the VKG Architecture Prize have been announced

In the Renovation category, the Wheermolen Rudolf Garrelstraat project in Purmerend by DOOR Architects won No. 1. The New Construction category was won by De Eenhoorn from Amsterdam by Heren 5.

The jury was allowed to consider a selection of submitted projects. From the 26 entries, six projects were nominated, three in each category. For these projects, the photography and text received was extended with video footage of the project and an accompanying word from the architect. It was up to the jury to make the final selection based on these. They succeeded, with two architects, a sustainability expert and a plastic frame specialist coming out unanimously as the two winners.

The Wheermolen, Rudolf Garrelstraat is a project by DOOR Architects with profiles from Kömmerling and window frames from Schipper Kozijnen commissioned by Hemubo. De Eenhoorn was designed by architectural firm Heren 5 with profiles from Gealan and window frames from Transcarbo commissioned by Ymere. The jury praised the projects because circularity, execution technology and aesthetics were perfectly brought together, with a star role for the plastic window frames

Wheermolen Rudolf Garrel Street

The project on Rudolf Garrelstraat in the Wheermolen neighborhood of Purmerend fulfills an exemplary function. Apartment buildings like this are located throughout the Netherlands and present a great challenge for the construction industry, as many need to be renovated. This project is a very good example of how renovation can be both aesthetic and sustainable. Profiles made of 100% recycled plastic may become the benchmark. The jurors also praised the color choices and processing of the window frames. In addition, the project also received points for improved livability. On the first floor, the garage boxes have been converted into apartments with a small front garden. This gives more social control and is an inventive solution that inspires.

The Unicorn

A residential project also won in this category. Characteristic of this building is the strong urban planning language that nevertheless radiates a clear residential function. The processing of the window frames deserves a beauty award, it is beautifully applied as total facade detailing and incorporated into the masonry as a matter of course. The color scheme is tasteful and the choice was made to continue the colors of the window frames in the balustrades. The jury is charmed by the social cohesion: homes for different generations, the shared common areas versus relatively small homes. In the housing challenges out there, this is in nicely fitting concept, inspiration for the entire building world.

The VKG Architecture Prize 2023 jury

The VKG Architecture Prize jury this year consisted of two architects: former winners Arno Kolen of van den hout and kolen architects and Arthur Nuss of Global Architects. Mantijn van Leeuwen is sustainability expert and director of NIBE. The jury was assisted by representative of the plastic window frame industry: Albert Zegelaar, director VKG.

Focus on quality and sustainability

The window and entrance are the connection between a building and the outside world. Window frames leave a clear signature in architecture. Like the entire construction column, the plastic window frame industry is strongly committed to sustainable innovation, including through recycling and the development of bio-attributed PVC. In addition, VKG's goal is to ensure quality products for users. The knife cuts both ways: on the one hand users have a pleasant indoor climate and window frames with a long lifespan, on the other hand we limit the burden on the environment.

More information can be found on the vkg seal website
VKG Architecture Award - VKG Hallmark