The Union International
d’ Architecture features the
“Heerlen Glaspaleis”
in its list of the
“1000 most important buildings
of the 20th century”.
Synergy: The façade of the “Glaspaleis Heerlen” allows plenty of light into the building, while tried-and-tested luminaires with the latest technology blend in harmoniously.
T
he “Glaspaleis Heerlen” is an
impressive transparent forum in
the centre of Heerlen, a municipality
in the south-east of the Dutch province
of Limburg.
Two decades after installation, 200 BEGA
indoor luminaires continued to provide
reliable service at all times in the cultural
centre and the five institutions housed
within. However, energy-efficient
developments were required.
Modernisation was carried out with
operations still running and precisely fitting
LED modules replaced the old electronic
components. These will provide high
quality, energy savings and illumination
efficiency for decades to come.
The modernisation project in the Glaspaleis
underlines BEGA’s philosophy of producing
durable building details – not disposable
products. The components are replaceable
and the distinctive illumination showcases
the architecture.
Sophisticated architecture, countless
unique features and the sustainability
of the entire project highlight the original
requirement of businessman and client
Peter Josef Schunck:
“Extraordinary” design specification
Architect Frits Peutz received the unusual
brief from Schunck in the 1930s:
“Design a department store that stands
like a stacked marketplace next to the
market!”
A concrete structure and hanging glass
façades created this covered marketplace.
Mushroom-shaped concrete columns
support the ceilings. ▶
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