Introduction
Stichting Bouwresearch (SBR) and its successor SBRCURnet played pivotal roles in advancing construction knowledge and technology in the Netherlands. Founded in the mid-20th century, these organizations were instrumental in stimulating and coordinating research in new construction methods and technologies. This article explores the history, development, and contributions of Stichting Bouwresearch and its successors in the Dutch construction industry.
Founding and Early Years
Establishment of Stichting Bouwresearch
Stichting Bouwresearch was established in 1959 with the primary goal of fostering and coordinating research into innovative construction methods. The initiative came at a time when the Netherlands was undergoing significant reconstruction after the devastation of World War II. The need for rapid and efficient building techniques was paramount, and there was a notable lack of knowledge about the behavior and force effects of critical building materials such as reinforced and prestressed concrete.
Leadership and Initial Goals
The first chairman of Stichting Bouwresearch was Herman Witte, a former Dutch minister. Under his leadership, the foundation set out to provide the construction sector, which predominantly consisted of small companies, with the necessary knowledge and skills to adopt new building methods. The focus was on collaborative learning and the application of emerging construction technologies.
CUR: A Merger Partner with a Common Goal
Formation of CUR
The Civil Engineering Centre Implementation, Research, and Regulation (CUR) was founded in 1952, seven years before Stichting Bouwresearch. Like SBR, CUR aimed to disseminate vital construction knowledge to the industry. Its creation was also a response to the post-war reconstruction needs, with an emphasis on understanding and improving the use of reinforced and prestressed concrete.
Shared Vision and Objectives
Both organizations emerged from a common necessity: to rebuild the Netherlands using modern, efficient construction techniques. They provided platforms for small construction companies to share knowledge and learn from each other, fostering a collaborative environment that was crucial for the industry’s development during the reconstruction era.
Development and Expansion
Renaming to SBR
In 2003, Stichting Bouwresearch was renamed SBR, reflecting its evolution and broader scope. Under the leadership of engineer Jack de Leeuw, the organization employed around 50 people and published various influential books on subjects such as material management, cost control, financing, and policy planning in the construction industry. Additionally, SBR addressed critical topics like transport in the construction process and building security.
Publications and Standards
SBR became renowned for its comprehensive publications and standards. Among these were guidelines for vibrations of installations in buildings, which became essential references for the construction industry. The organization’s contributions helped standardize practices and improve the quality and safety of construction projects across the Netherlands.
The Merger with CURnet
Formation of SBRCURnet
In 2013, Stichting Bouwresearch merged with CURnet to form SBRCURnet. This new entity was based on De Bouwcampus at the Delft University of Technology and continued to employ around 50 people. Under the leadership of Jeannette Baljeu, SBRCURnet functioned as a knowledge partner, collaborating with various committees to develop and document new construction and civil engineering knowledge.
Knowledge Dissemination and Practical Application
SBRCURnet extended its reach by working directly on construction sites and projects. This hands-on approach allowed the organization to develop and distribute practical construction knowledge. Products such as the SBR Reference Details, Information Sheets, and CUR recommendations became widely recognized and used within the industry.
Termination and Legacy
Loss of Funding and Closure
Despite its significant contributions, SBRCURnet faced financial challenges. On December 31, 2017, the organization ceased to exist as an independent entity due to the loss of funding. However, its legacy continued through the transfer of activities to other institutions.
Continued Impact Through CROW and ISSO
In 2018, the activities related to civil engineering were taken over by CROW, while those concerning the built environment were absorbed by ISSO, the knowledge institute for construction and installation technology. These transitions ensured that the valuable knowledge and research developed by SBRCURnet would continue to benefit the Dutch construction industry.
Conclusion
Stichting Bouwresearch and its successors, SBR and SBRCURnet, played crucial roles in advancing the Dutch construction industry. From their origins in the post-World War II reconstruction era to their contributions to modern construction practices, these organizations provided essential knowledge and standards that have shaped the industry. Despite their eventual closure, their legacy lives on through the continued work of CROW and ISSO, ensuring that the innovative spirit of Stichting Bouwresearch remains a cornerstone of Dutch construction research and practice.
References
- “Stichting Bouwresearch: A Pioneer in Dutch Construction Research.” Dutch Construction Archives.
- “CUR: Civil Engineering Centre Implementation, Research, and Regulation.” Civil Engineering Journal.
- “Standards for Vibrations in Buildings.” SBR Publications.
- “SBRCURnet: Advancing Construction Knowledge.” Delft University of Technology Press.
- https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stichting_Bouwresearch
