The Parametric Analysis performed by Traject explores dozens of design scenarios for the office buildings within Amstel Discovery District, comparing them on energy performance, material impact, daylight, circularity and cost. The goal: identify which configurations can deliver Paris-Proof, BREEAM-Excellent and WELL-ready workplaces within Amsterdam’s city ring.
The study evaluates a wide range of building variants across key performance areas:
These factors were compared systematically to understand trade-offs and to identify the “best-performing” future-proof office concepts.
All variants are technically capable of meeting Paris-Proof operational energy targets when combined with the ADD energy concept of local PV generation, efficient systems and battery support
BREEAM-Excellent demands stricter energy performance—roughly 17 kWh/m²·year (BENG2). Office-focused configurations can reach this level; full lab-oriented programs cannot.
Traditional concrete-steel structures no longer meet future MPG and Paris-Proof embodied CO₂ limits. Hybrid structures and especially CLT + timber façades (HSB) perform significantly better and meet upcoming regulatory thresholds.
To achieve BREEAM-Excellent, a disassembly index of ≥45% is required. Timber-rich solutions (CLT/HSB) clearly score best, enabling easier future reuse, adaptation and recycling.
Optimal daylight occurs with 55–70% glass, supported by higher ceilings and shallower floorplates. About one-third of the 40% glass variants fall short of new daylight standards.
Reaching BREEAM-Excellent energy levels requires substantial PV surface. ADD's energy hub combines generation, heat pumps, PV and batteries to produce a structural heat surplus, which can be sold.
A small number of design variants stand out by offering:
These variants form the recommended foundation for Paris-Proof, BREEAM-Excellent, WELL-ready offices in ADD. Learn more by downloading the full report.
Amstel Discovery District offers organisations a rare opportunity: to locate within Amsterdam’s city ring while working from offices that are designed to meet tomorrow’s sustainability standards today.
ADD delivers a workplace model designed for the next decades of Amsterdam’s development.
Let’s explore what’s possible for your organisation.
Amstel Discovery District
