DW02 Lighthouse: Sustainable Office Innovation in Amsterdam’s District West

DW02 Lighthouse marks a pivotal transformation for Amsterdam’s District West. As the first building completed in the redevelopment of the former Telegraaf complex in Sloterdijk, this project sets the tone for a new era of sustainable, high-quality office architecture. Designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects, DW02 Lighthouse combines cutting-edge environmental performance with a welcoming, human-centered workspace.

A New Benchmark for Office Architecture

DW02 Lighthouse represents the first phase of a large-scale transformation in District West, a strategically located area near major highways and Sloterdijk station. The project involved upgrading the existing high-rise into 15,700 m² of premium office space, reoriented towards a central square and enhanced with a four-story extension featuring a striking main entrance.

Daniel Jongtien, partner at Benthem Crouwel Architects, notes: “We designed DW02 Lighthouse for the new way of working: maximum daylight, open office floors, and a distinctive, sustainable wooden structure that promotes comfort and flexibility.”

Distinctive Wooden Design and Transparency

A defining feature of DW02 Lighthouse is its fully wooden construction, which enhances both sustainability and spatial warmth. The sleek, functional facade incorporates rhythmic elements with staggered terraces, creating a dynamic visual identity. Large facade openings allow natural light to flood the interior, emphasizing transparency and connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The building’s spacious atrium, highlighted by a sculptural staircase, encourages spontaneous interactions and collaborative work. Attention to detail in wooden components and pure connections ensures a flexible, high-quality environment that aligns with modern office needs.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability drives the design strategy for DW02 Lighthouse and the wider District West redevelopment. Key elements include:

• Zero Carbon Emissions Goal: The project adheres to strict ESG criteria, integrating long-term ecological responsibility.
• Demountable Construction: The wooden extension features dry connections, allowing for reuse of components, while the floor uses paving stones instead of cement screed.
• Energy Efficiency: A new WKO (Heat Cold Storage) system reduces energy consumption, and SMART office floors adjust climate conditions based on usage.
• Green Integration: Extensive greenery on roofs, terraces, and surrounding areas promotes biodiversity, well-being, and climate adaptation.

This approach not only minimizes the building’s ecological footprint but also demonstrates the potential of modular wooden construction in contemporary urban design.

Shaping the Future of District West

DW02 Lighthouse is the first step toward transforming District West into a vibrant, dynamic urban district. Over the coming years, the area will host over 100,000 m² of offices and amenities, featuring innovative architecture while preserving the district’s industrial character. Smart, modular development using sustainable materials, extensive green spaces, and public meeting areas will create an environment that is stylish, healthy, and enjoyable for both working and living.

DW02 Lighthouse sets a benchmark for sustainable office architecture, offering a forward-looking model that combines ecological responsibility, design excellence, and user-focused workspaces.

All photographs are works of  Jannes Linders / Benthem Crouwel Architects