Heijmans will start this month on the large-scale renovation of the Gemini-Noord educational building on the grounds of the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). The renovation involves the low-rise section, with laboratories and teaching and study areas. The renovation will generate revenue of € 33 million for Heijmans. Completion is scheduled for the last quarter of 2024.
Heijmans won the contract for the renovation of the Gemini Noord building in a tender based on a two-phase contract. Heijmans has mapped out the property in close consultation with consultants and the TU/e. Gemini-Noord has a floor area of 14,000 square metres and has now been completely gutted. The construction phase is now starting.
Sustainability hallmark
The renovation of Gemini North will be awarded a so-called BREEAM Excellent design certificate. This is a global sustainability hallmark for the realisation of sustainable buildings. The starting point for the Gemini renovation is therefore to minimise the impact on the environment, among other things by preserving existing elements (such as the concrete structure) and using sustainable materials.
Both the northern and southern sections of Gemini will also be connected to the thermal storage (CHP) system located beneath the campus. The system heats and cools various TU/e buildings in a sustainable manner. This will make Gemini the TU/e’s next completely gas-free building.
Gemini
Gemini was built in the early 1970s under the names W-High and W-Low. Following the most recent renovation in 2011, it was renamed Gemini, Latin for twin. Once all the work is completed, Gemini as a whole will house the Biomedical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering faculties, various research groups and numerous educational facilities, such as lecture halls, study areas, laboratories, study associations, meeting facilities and a restaurant.