How Trespa® Panels Elevate Architectural Design

A Case Study on Zalmstael, The Netherlands

The vision for Zalmstael, designed by BREINarchitecten, was to construct a residential building with the charm and resilience of a beach hotel. Given its location near the Nieuwe Waterweg, the materials needed to withstand constant exposure to coastal weather while maintaining a warm and sophisticated appearance.

Aesthetic and Functional Harmony

The initial design called for wood to achieve a natural, inviting façade. However, concerns over maintenance, fire safety, and long-term durability led to the search for a more resilient alternative. "We sought a material that embodied the aesthetic of wood, but without its drawbacks. Trespa^® Meteon^® French Walnut immediately caught our attention as the ideal ‘wood-like’ option," says Bruce Kee, architect at BREINarchitecten and Bim Masters. Trespa^® Meteon^® French Walnut perfectly captured the warmth and texture of wood, offering exceptional durability and requiring minimal maintenance.

Durability Without Compromise

Thanks to its High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) technology, Trespa^® provided an exterior solution that resists moisture, UV radiation, and harsh weather conditions. Unlike wood, which requires frequent maintenance, Trespa^® panels offer long-term performance with minimal upkeep, ensuring that Zalmstael’s façade remains pristine for years to come.

Seamless integration and detailing

One of the standout aspects of the project was the ability to customise Trespa^® panels to enhance the building’s design. Collaborating with contractor Waal, the panels were milled to resemble traditional planks, creating a visually dynamic façade. The precise detailing ensured that the plank divisions ran seamlessly across the entire height of the building, reinforcing the architectural vision with meticulous craftsmanship.

‘‘We are very pleased with our choice of Trespa^® Meteon^®. The look is ‘warm’ and natural, allowing us to have the wood-like finish that we were looking for. And most importantly: the residents are highly satisfied.’’ Bruce Kee.

Why Architects Choose Trespa

Architects looking for a high-performance material that meets both design and functional requirements continually turn to Trespa for:

Unmatched Aesthetics— A wide range of finishes resembling wood, metal, and solid colours.
Extreme Durability— Weather-resistant and impact-resistant properties make it ideal for exterior applications.
Sustainable Design— Trespa prioritises environmentally responsible manufacturing, aligning with green building standards.

Final Thoughts: Crafting Timeless Beauty with Trespa

The Zalmstael project exemplifies how Trespa^® products can complement architectural ambition, ensuring that design integrity is never compromised. By combining beauty with resilience, Trespa^® Meteon^® French Walnut helped transform a bold vision into a reality that stands the test of time.

For architects striving for innovation, Trespa^® is more than just a material; it’s a solution that empowers creativity without limitations. Explore Trespa’s product range and discover how they can enhance your next project.