ASETEK

A giant headquarter with large accordion stairs in Ultra High Performance Concrete

Build Year

2022-2024

Architect

Arkitema

Entrepreneur

TL Byg A/S

Engineer

Cowi

Builder

Asetek

A FUTURE-PROOF AND ATTRACTIVE WORKPLACE

Asetek, which produces cooling systems for global IT suppliers and similar, has just opened its impressive new headquarters south of Aalborg in Denmark. The new building consists of four structures with a modern and minimalist look, designed by Arkitema, and has a total size of approximately 14,000 square meters.

The company, which has experienced significant growth, wanted to consolidate several functions under one roof, including the development department, laboratories, administration, and part of the company's production. This creates a more future-proof, diverse, and efficient work environment. The new headquarters now accommodates approximately 220 employees.

Hi-Con has had the pleasure of producing stairs in Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) for the project.

CUSTOM STAIRCASE SOLUTIONS

With more people and functions gathered in the new headquarters, it is essential to ensure efficient movement without compromising on design. Ultra High Performance Concretre was therefore the ideal choice for the building's stairs.

"We were in dialogue with Arkitema long before construction started to ensure the realization of their unique design." Frederik S. Boysen, Technical Manager, Hi-Con

Hi-Con has delivered two different stair solutions to Asetek. The stairs with loose stringers include two floor-high stairs with cast-on plinths, which together form an impressive staircase in the heart of the building, acting as a focal point that attracts attention. The stairs are mounted on recessed stringers with a width of approximately 5.6 meters, a tread of about 300 mm, and a total length in the horizontal plane of approximately 9.4 and 7.6 meters. The stairs have a thickness of 80 mm.

In addition to this impressive staircase design, we have delivered two floor-high accordion staircases without loose stringers, divided into four elements, which are cast together with UHPC after delivery. These stairs have an almost floating appearance without support under the free span, adding architectural elegance and a futuristic design. The stairs have a width of approximately 1.5 meters, a tread of 300 mm, a total length in the horizontal plane of approximately 23.4 meters, and a thickness of 150 mm.

"Particularly the floating landings are statically complex! Here, UHPC ensures that the final design is both elegant and provides sensible user comfort."

Frederik S. Boysen,

CTO, Hi-Con

BENEFITS WITH UHPC

Hi-Con's own generation of UHPC, CRC, offers extreme strength with a characteristic compressive strength of over 165 MPa, enabling the creation of slender and elegant stair constructions without compromising durability.

The biggest advantage of UHPC is its ability to significantly reduce weight and material usage compared to traditional concrete materials. The material also allows for more complex and customized designs, giving architects the freedom to realize their creative visions without the limitations imposed by other materials.

Moreover, UHPC is known for its extraordinary durability and long lifespan, meaning that stair solutions built with this material require no maintenance, have a lifespan of over 100 years, and can withstand demanding environmental conditions. It is also a fireproof material that contributes to the safety of the building and can serve as protection between floors.

Hi-Con's delivery of stairs for this project ensures not only functional accessibility between floors but also adds aesthetic value with their slim and precise design, which harmoniously integrates into the building's modern architecture.