Silka elements: speed and acoustic performance
The shell of the building was constructed using Xella’s Silka element system. These large sand-lime brick elements, installed by crane, enable fast construction without sacrificing precision—an essential advantage in a thirteen-story building. Their dimensional accuracy simplifies later finishing work, while their excellent acoustic performance ensures living comfort in a mixed-use project that includes a library, offices, and a multipurpose hall below the residential floors. The material also provides effective sound insulation between apartments, supporting privacy and calm.
Digital design with BIM
Efficient construction began in the preparatory phase, thanks to the integration of Xella's products into the project's BIM model. Using blue.sprint, Xella's digital service, the Silka walls were optimized directly in the digital construction plans. This enabled extremely accurate designs from the outset and the early detection of conflicts.
But digitization went beyond mere design. Because all data from the BIM model was linked to Xella's production and logistics processes, it was possible to determine exactly which materials were needed on-site and when. Thanks to these just-in-time deliveries, the project was not only faster, but also with less waste and better coordination between the various parties.
“During pre-engineering we switched from timber-frame designs to Silka blocks, which helped us meet new fire-safety requirements. Everything was modeled in BIM, allowing us to detect clashes early, and Xella put in significant engineering effort due to the building’s height and wind loads. The entire process was handled transparently, punctually, and with minimal errors,” says Steve Ghettem, project manager at Artes, contractor of the building project.
Sustainable comfort
A robust building envelope and a digitally coordinated process are complemented by innovative, sustainable technologies. Beneath the square lies a geothermal energy storage field, linked to geothermal heat pumps that provide fossil-free heating in winter and passive cooling in summer. Combined with the thermal inertia of the Silka walls, this results in a stable, energy-efficient indoor climate that enhances year-round comfort. Hoost demonstrates how distinctive architecture can blend seamlessly with advanced building systems, efficient techniques, and digital processes.
Project partners: Jakob + MacFarlane, B2Ai, Caaap, Artes Depret