Living alongside a busy motorway requires smart solutions. For the new Canvas Living development in Rotterdam, we designed custom-made façade grilles that let fresh air in while keeping traffic noise out. This creates a healthy and comfortable living environment right in the heart of the city.
Case study
± 3 min
Heat pump enclosures at Burgum AZC
At AZC Burgum, Merford delivered DICE enclosures for heat pumps, helping to reduce noise disturbance and protect technical installations while maintaining a calm, family-friendly residential environment.
The homes remain gas-free, in line with legislation, while the chosen solution ensures the heat pumps continue to operate reliably without creating additional disturbance for residents.
Protection against noise at AZC Burgum
In 2020, the first of 64 new homes at the asylum seekers’ centre in Burgum, managed by COA, were completed. The development consists of terraced housing, courtyards and play areas. Built to modern quality standards, the homes are also suitable for future use as regular housing.
As the homes are equipped with heat pumps for hot water supply, it quickly became apparent that some units produced excessive noise. Merford was commissioned by DRS Installatietechniek to supply sound-insulating enclosures for the heat pumps, addressing both technical performance issues and potential noise disturbance for residents.
DICE enclosures for freestanding heat pumps
The selected solution consists of DICE enclosures, designed for freestanding heat pumps. Many units are located close to playgrounds, making physical protection against damage an important requirement. At the same time, the enclosures needed to integrate visually with the clean and modern architectural design of the housing development.
The collaboration between Merford, DRS Installatietechniek and Hegeman Bouwgroep ran smoothly throughout the project. The enclosures combine functionality, acoustic performance and a clean design finish. The homes remain fully gas-free in line with current legislation, while the heat pumps can operate reliably without causing additional disturbance for residents.
Captured on site
Comfort and safety in new housing with reduced background noise
Following installation, residents experience reduced noise levels from the heat pumps, particularly during periods of high hot water demand near play areas. In addition, technical faults caused by weather conditions or external impact are minimised thanks to the physical protection provided by the enclosures.
This project demonstrates how acoustic solutions in residential new-build developments can be combined effectively with practical and aesthetic requirements. The homes at AZC Burgum are now more comfortable for families, with lower noise levels and improved system reliability. For Merford, it is a clear example of tailored solutions that contribute to safer and quieter living environments.
Behind the project
"The main purpose of the enclosures is to protect the units. In most places, the heat pumps are located right next to playgrounds, so the risk of damage is high. Naturally, the acoustic aspect is an added benefit. The collaboration with Merford went very well, and we are also pleased with the result. Everything looks very neat and well finished."
Related case studies
