DHV is an expert in the fields of building physics and acoustics with in-house knowledge in the fields of hall acoustics, building acoustics, building physics, sustainable construction, passive houses, fire safety, noise control, flow problems, daylight studies, sunlight studies, and stagecraft.
Our approach is multidisciplinary and proactive from the initial draft, down to the last detail. In this way we develop innovative solutions that work for all aspects of the project whilst ensuring that sustainability is a top priority.
Building Physics
Building physics deals with comfort, by making proper use of light, air, ventilation, and heat. Preferably by means of sustainable resources such as daylight, solar energy, and wind energy. An important requirement for success is teamwork between architect, installation technicians, builders, and construction engineers.
Acoustics
Sound is perception. Yet, the more elusive “proper sound” seems, the more practical the acoustics consultant must be, taking into account the regulations while meeting the requirements of the client. His solutions must fit or reinforce the concept of the architect. Hence, standard solutions in the field of acoustics of rooms or building acoustics are rarely truly a solution. Anyone can calculate noise but the interpretation of the figures is what makes the difference.
Sustainable Construction
In the field of sustainable construction, we search in concert with the client for solutions that create value. This can be achieved through an optimal interaction between the elements of energy, water, use of materials, surroundings, and comfort. The sustainability achieved can be quantified by means of tools such as EPN, GPR Gebouw, and BREEAM. DHV gladly contributes to a future in which designs and construction are CO2-neutral.
Fire Safety
DHV is an expert in the field of fire safety. By involving a fire safety consultant in the project early on in the design process, we can identify possible problems at an early stage and resolve them in an integrated manner. Safety can be guaranteed in a wide variety of buildings by means of Fire Safety Engineering (FSE).
Noise Control
The more (business) activities and living take place at a short distance from each other in our densely populated country, the more we have to control the production of noise. In this discipline, DHV is the absolute front-runner in the Netherlands. We go beyond the mere performance of research and the preparation of an acoustics report. We think in terms of solutions and guide companies through the often laborious legal procedures.
DHV is also an expert in the field of (the reduction of) traffic noise. The client’s query determines whether a quick and concise analysis (traffic noise quick scan) is sufficient.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
Flow problem? DHV resolves it by means of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Our experts are able to tackle any challenge, through thorough knowledge of fluid dynamics, a powerful computing center, and the advanced simulation software Fluent. CFD is a fast, flexible, and thus cost-saving, alternative to wind tunnel analysis.
Moreover, other forms of flow can also be simulated with CFD. Our expertise extends from classic windmills to building-connected wind turbines, from fire development to water flow, and from simulations to validations with measurements. The most complex flow problems are clarified by realistic visualizations and animations.
Stagecraft
Stagecraft comprises everything that makes a building into a theater. This goes beyond the equipment that lifts the sets on the stage, the sound that resonates, or the illumination of the stage. It is important that the design (team) of a stage building includes a stagecraft consultant from the beginning. Only then can proper coordination between all technical disciplines in the theater be achieved.