From historic landmark to sustainable B&B: ventilation installation in the Riemst water tower

Summary

The iconic Riemst water tower from 1930 is being given a second life as a B&B with five rooms and a caretaker's residence. For the ventilation of this unique repurposing project, a compact DucoBox Energy Sky ventilation system with DucoFlex air ducts was chosen. Thanks to the close collaboration between DUCO representative Joppe Vetters and installer Jurgen Moors from MVS Sanitair, the first installation phase proceeded smoothly. The project combines heritage preservation with modern, energy-efficient techniques.

The project: a new purpose for a historic monument

The water tower on Heukelommerweg in Riemst was earmarked for demolition for quite some time. Fortunately, there was a turnaround. This distinctive building from 1930, which defined the area's skyline for years, is now being given a new function as a B&B.

The transformation includes five guest rooms and a caretaker's residence. An ambitious project that fits within the broader movement of repurposing: buildings originally designed for one specific function are given a second life. It combines respect for heritage with a contemporary approach.

The challenge: ventilation in a compact monument

Ventilating a former water tower brings specific challenges. The available space is limited, and the building's historic character requires solutions that have minimal impact on the original structure.

For this project, the following were chosen:

• DucoBox Energy Sky: a compact ceiling-mounted system D ventilation unit with heat recovery
• DucoFlex air ducts: installation-friendly ducts with the highest airtightness class

Phase 1: installation of DucoBox Energy Sky and DucoFlex air ducting system

In the project's first phase, the DucoFlex air ducts and DucoBox Energy Sky were installed. This phase forms the foundation of the ventilation system that will later ensure a healthy indoor climate in the B&B.

The chosen solutions

DucoBox Energy Sky: compact and energy-efficient

The DucoBox Energy Sky proved to be the ideal choice for this project. With a height of just 30 cm and a weight of 19 kg, the system is exceptionally compact – perfect for a building where every square metre counts.

The ventilation system offers an airflow of 275 m³/h and can be flexibly installed: on the ceiling, against the wall, or concealed in a suspended ceiling. The heat recovery ensures energy-efficient operation, whilst the quiet nature of the system is essential for hotel guests' comfort.

An additional advantage is the optional integrated 2-zone control. The system automatically adjusts ventilation based on CO2 and humidity, resulting in even more efficient energy consumption.

DucoFlex air ducts: installation convenience and quality

The DucoFlex air ducts formed the second pillar of the installation. This complete air duct system scores on various fronts:

• Highest airtightness class D and lowest air resistance for energy-efficient operation
• 'Click & Go' principle that accelerates installation
• Antistatic and antibacterial properties for a healthier indoor climate
• Minimum number of fittings required

With DucoFlex, DUCO positions itself as a total supplier: from valves and ducts to complete ventilation units, all from a single source.

Collaboration between representative and installer

The installation proceeded through close collaboration between DUCO representative Joppe Vetters and installer Jurgen Moors from MVS Sanitair.

What follows: phase 2 and completion

The project in the Riemst water tower is currently in full progress. Following the successful installation of the DucoBox Energy Sky and DucoFlex ducts in phase 1, the completion phase will follow later.

In phase 2, the complete system will be tested and finished once more. New footage will also be recorded to document the completed project and demonstrate the ventilation system's operation in practice.

Repurposing with sustainability in mind

The transformation of the Riemst water tower illustrates how repurposing and modern technology reinforce each other. By choosing energy-efficient ventilation solutions with heat recovery, the building not only receives a new function but also a sustainable future.

The combination of a compact ventilation system, installation-friendly ducts, and intelligent demand-controlled ventilation ensures that the B&B meets contemporary comfort standards without compromising the building's historic character.

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Project details

• Location: Heukelommerweg, 3770 Riemst
• Building type: Water tower (1930), repurposed as B&B
• DUCO solutions: DucoBox Energy Sky, DucoFlex air ducts
• Installer: MVS Sanitair (Jurgen Moors)
• DUCO representative: Joppe Vetters