Stichting Bouwresearch: Complete History and Details

Introduction

Stichting Bouwresearch was a Dutch knowledge institute specializing in construction and building installations. Initially the company was known as SBR and later it was also called as SBRCURnet. They company played a crucial role in advancing the construction knowledge and practices. Stichting Bouwresearch’s operations were originally based in Rotterdam and later moved to Delft. Stichting Bouwresearch collaborative efforts with industry professionals and commitment to research and development significantly influenced the post-war reconstruction and subsequent growth of Dutch construction industry.

Founding and Early Development

Establishment

Stichting Bouwresearch was founded in 1959. Prime objective for the establishment of this institute was to utilize latest research methods and application to make the construction industry more fast, innovative and modern. Herman Witte was the first chairman of the Stichting Bouwresearch.

CUR: The Merger partner of Stichting Bouwresearch

Merge partner of Stichting Bouwresearch the Civil Engineering Center for implementation, Research and Regulation (CUR) which later merged with SBR, was established seven years earlier in 1952. So basically, both organizations emerged from the post-World War II reconstruction efforts in Netherlands. It was the time when there was an urgent need for extensive construction. Also, there was a significant gap in knowledge regarding the behavior and forces of key building materials. There was no proper utilization of reinforced and prestressed concrete.

Mission and Impact of Stichting Bouwresearch

CUR which was aimed to equipe construction companies with useful material and knowledge collaborated with Stichting Bouwresearch and both were having a common mission at the most iconic period of time. Stichting Bouwresearch was predominantly made up of a collaboration with CUR and benefited people and industry through shared learning. The aim and impact of the company to introduce the teach evolving construction methods.

Locations and Operations

Headquarters

For a long period Stichting Bouwresearch was housed in the Groothandelsgebouw in Rotterdam, opposite the Bouw centrum. This location was central to its operations until its later relocation.

Transition to SBR

In 2003 under leadership of Jack de Leeuw Stichting Bouwresearch was renamed SBR. There was total 50 employees working with this company approximately.

Publications and Standards

Stichting Bouwresearch later known as SBR was famous for its extensive publications on various topics related to construction industry. There were publications like equipment management, cost control, financing, policy planning, transport during construction process and building security etc. Stichting Bouwresearch also known as SBR also gained recognition for establishing standards for vibrations for installations in buildings.

Merger and Foundation of SBRCURnet

In 2013 Stichting Bouwresearch merged with CURnet, resulting in the formation of SBRCURnet. This newly merged organization was located on De Bouw campus within the grounds of Delft University of Technology.

Leadership and Workforce

After this company came under the leadership of Jeannette Baljeu and he kept around 50 people under employment at that time.

Activities and Contributions

SBRCURnet formerly known as Stichting Bouwresearch functioned as a knowledge partner. Company collaborated with different committees to develop and document new construction and civil engineering knowledge. Along with theoretical work Stichting Bouwresearch was actively involved in practical applications on construction sites. Company contributed directly to projects and ensuring the spread of innovative construction techniques and practices.

Conclusion

To conclude, Stichting Bouwresearch was the iconic construction company with unique aim and approach in construction industry after World War II. With the passage of time Stichting Bouwresearch evolved as SBR and ten SBRCURnet. Company created a long lasting impact on construction industry through its collaborations with other companies. Stichting Bouwresearch released many useful publication on different useful techniques  and methods construction.