Limes International
Stol Architecten

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LIMES international, a dynamic consultancy firm that specializes in fiscal matters and social security, required a larger office to accommodate its expanding business activities. The company was looking for a prominent, central location. The chosen property, in Valkenburg, Zuid-Holland, was the perfect fit thanks to its location next to the A44 on the western bank of the Oude Rijn (old Rhine). It wasn’t just the location, but the history that appealed to the company: the property is located on the northern side of the Roman Limes, the border of the Roman Empire. This links the office to both the name and the international focus of the company.

LIMES international wanted a spacious office building, with an open and inviting atmosphere that could easily accommodate any future changes or expansions. The municipality specified that the building was not allowed to have a clear front or back.

This iconic building consists of a glass plinth, with a monolithic structure on top of it. The building complements the landscape well: the transparent ground floor seems to connect to the water and ever so slightly contrasts with the hulking mass above it; the façade cladding directs the eye towards important landmarks such as the Valkenburgse Meer (Valkenburg lake) and several roads cleaving through the landscape. Finally, the staggered openings give the building another dimension.

STOL architecten sought out materials with an abstract and robust look for the façade cladding. Another requirement of the material was that it had to have a natural tint that would differentiate the building from the landscape. ‘Tiles from the Terra Tones collection by Mosa Facades ticked all the boxes,’ says Corèl. They chose the Terra Tones 206V (Mid Grey) for their lighter shades and subtle nuances. The tiles were placed in a pattern specifically designed by STOL architecten for the building. They used the following three tile sizes: 90 x 90 centimetres, 60 x 90 centimetres, and 30 x 90 centimetres. The measurements and placements of the windows were adjusted to the tile sizes to create a harmonious look, using materials as efficiently as possible. An invisible method of attachment guaranteed a seamless finish that better showcased the abstract design of the building. Corèl finishes by saying, ‘The Terra Tones tiles have a unique, warm colour that looks both luxurious and stylish. They give the façade an elegant look, while their structure and shades create a playful effect together with the windows when the building catches direct sunlight. The building looks authentic and unique because of the façade.’