Renovation and preservation: the unique challenges of fire protection in a historic building
Reading time: 3 min
To preserve the historic character of a monument nearly a thousand years old while meeting the most modern safety standards – this was the challenge facing VanderLinden with Heeswijk Castle. This VINCI Energies Building Solutions business unit in the Netherlands chose an approach based on a hybrid technical solution.
Built almost a millennium ago, Heeswijk Castle, linked with the Dukes of Brabant, is a historical gem located in the Dutch province of North Brabant, 150 km south of Amsterdam. A listed historic monument, this exceptional structure attracts a great many visitors each year, and its obsolete fire protection systems needed replacement in the interest of public safety.
To modernise an 11th-century castle without affecting its cachet is no easy task. “One of the biggest challenges was to install a system compliant with current standards given the obvious architectural constraints,” explains Ferry Mahieu, Client Manager Safety & Security at VanderLinden, a VINCI Energies Building Solutions business unit in the Netherlands.
There was no question here of drilling holes through walls for cables, for fear of damaging features steeped in history. The solution? A hybrid system combining wireless components with wired solutions where it was possible to install them without causing aesthetic damage. “This approach allowed us to create optimal coverage without damaging the castle’s appearance,” says Ferry Mahieu.
This technical choice required a detailed analysis of the monument and its sensitive areas. The VanderLinden teams worked hand-in-hand with the heritage preservation authorities to identify the best solutions. “We had to adapt our methods to the site’s unique features, which meant testing and making adjustments all the way through the project.”
Rigorous technical implementation
The installation had not only to meet preservation requirements, but also ensure maximum effectiveness in the event of fire. VanderLinden decided to install dual-sensing smoke alarms, which reduce the risk of false alarms while maximising responsiveness should an incident occur.
“We had to adapt our methods to the site’s unique features”
In addition, the system was integrated with the castle’s existing safety infrastructure, including its intrusion protection systems. This interconnection allows effective, centralised alert management.
Working on this spectacular monument was an extraordinary experience for the VanderLinden teams, who also had to contend with significant accessibility constraints. In order to minimise the impact on visitors, works were scheduled around the castle’s opening hours.
What was the key to success? “Meticulous planning alongside the site’s management team to schedule the work in time slots that allowed visits to carry on as usual.”
Following these upgrades, Heeswijk Castle’s fire protection meets the highest standards without compromising its historical integrity. And VanderLinden has further consolidated its expertise in performing technical installations in sensitive environments.
12/15/2025
