Introduction

What happens when architecture, sustainability, and technology unite seamlessly? You get The Edge—a revolutionary office building in Amsterdam that’s often referred to as the smartest and greenest building in the world. This case study explores how this architectural marvel was conceived, designed, and built to redefine the standards of modern workplaces.

Project Overview

Name: The Edge

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Client: Deloitte

Architects: PLP Architecture

Completed: 2015

Certifications: BREEAM Outstanding (score: 98.36%), one of the highest sustainability ratings in the world

Vision and Goals

The goal was to design a building that not only minimized energy use but also maximized human productivity. Deloitte wanted an office that reflected its forward-thinking approach to work, sustainability, and employee well-being.

Key objectives included:

A zero-carbon footprint

Data-driven facilities management

Seamless integration of IoT for lighting, climate, and space management

Flexibility to accommodate hybrid working patterns

Architectural Design Features

1. Orientation and Façade:

The building is designed around a large central atrium that allows natural daylight to penetrate deep into the office floors. The south façade is covered with solar panels, while the north side features full glazing to maximize indirect daylight.

2. Natural Ventilation & Smart Climate Control:

Sensors across the building monitor temperature, humidity, motion, and light. This allows precise climate control tailored to individual preferences—cutting energy waste while improving comfort.

3. Smart Lighting:

LED light panels by Philips are equipped with sensors and connected to a digital network. Lights adjust automatically based on occupancy and ambient light, leading to up to 80% energy savings.

Technology Integration

1. Smartphone as a Remote Control:

Employees use a custom app to find available desks, control lighting and temperature at their workstation, and even locate colleagues.

2. IoT & Data Collection:

Over 28,000 sensors gather data on everything—from air quality to usage patterns. Facility managers use this data to optimize space, energy, and maintenance scheduling.

3. Energy Efficiency:

The Edge generates more electricity than it uses. Solar panels and an aquifer thermal energy storage system reduce reliance on the grid to almost zero.

Sustainability Achievements

Energy Positive: The building produces 102% of its energy needs annually

Water Management: Rainwater is collected and used for flushing toilets and irrigation

Material Use: Low-impact materials were used during construction, and many components are demountable for future reuse

Impact and Outcome

Employee Satisfaction: Improved comfort and flexibility led to higher employee productivity and satisfaction

Operational Savings: Reduced maintenance and energy costs

Reputation: Deloitte received global recognition for innovation in workplace design and sustainability

Inspiration: The Edge has inspired similar smart, sustainable buildings around the world—from Singapore to New York

Final Thoughts

The Edge is more than just an office—it's a living system that adapts, learns, and evolves. This case study proves that smart architecture can create better buildings for people and the planet. As we look toward the future of work and climate action, The Edge stands as a guiding example of what’s possible when architecture meets intelligence.