MindLabs

New building and transformation

Mindlabs will be built next to LocHal, but it will be a slightly different building. Commissioned by the municipality of Tilburg and Fontys Hogescholen, we are realising a place that is fully in line with today’s trends and gives a second life to Tilburg’s industrial pearls. A big challenge for us is transforming an existing building and combining it with a new building. We will start by using the existing steel trusses of Hall 70 to create the heart of MindLabs. Then, next to that hall, adjacent to a courtyard garden, a new transparent building will arise with plenty of space for offices, education and media. As a final step, we will connect the new part of MindLabs with the existing LocHal building.

Signature space: Hal 70

The six-story MindLabs building will be built on a tiny construction site. To realise the project, we are first constructing the new part of MindLabs, after which we will continue with the transformation of Hall 70. Parts of the old monumental façades and the steel construction will be maintained and connected to a 'free floor'. From there, visitors will have access to the labs, studios and catering facilities. They can even debate in a specially designed arena. Hall 70 will be transformed into the signature space of MindLabs, the place where everything comes together.

BIM and MindLabs

We rely on interactive technologies, both inside the building and during construction. We, therefore, utilise our integrated BIM approach. Using point cloud data and clash detection allows the project to be insightful. The results are a well-thought-out construction process, increased efficiency and fewer failure costs. We ensure that as well as a physical building, the client receives a virtual building. We process information about materials, measurements and maintenance data into a digital as-built 3D model. This allows the client to easily control the management and maintenance after completion.

Mindlabs was constructed by Ballast Nedam Zuid for the Gemeente Tilburg and Fontys Hogeschool based on a design of Ector Hoogstad Architects.