Earnest Alderliesten

Introduction

In December 2019, I joined ABT as a structural engineer and I mainly deal with existing structures. While studying Civil Engineering at Delft University of Technology, with a specialization in Building Engineering, I did a short internship at ABT. My thesis was about reinforcing masonry houses in Groningen. During my internship and graduate studies I developed a passion for existing buildings.

What I do at ABT

My expertise is creating innovative solutions for reusing existing structures and have buildings last for years again. I have the privilege to work on spectacular projects, such as the Binnenhof.

Working with existing structures requires solutions that may not be obvious. It requires a certain amount of flexibility, as surprises may spring up that you could not have expected.

Therefore, it is important to have a good assessment of the qualities and elements of the existing building at an early stage. Archival records, if any, may provide relevant information to map the existing situation. Correct interpretation of the components is essential which requires extensive knowledge of materials and techniques of different construction periods.

In addition, it is important to properly control things in the work. Records do not always provide all the information and often deviate from reality. A thorough preliminary investigation will pay off at a later stage, especially if there are no records.

My dream for the future

My aspiration is for the circular use of buildings, products and raw materials to be something that goes without saying in the coming years. ABT has a leading role in future-proofing our stock of existing buildings in a sustainable way. Integral collaboration is crucial here.