Peter Bertholet & GTB Lab
A special tribute: GTB Lab puts Peter Bertholet in the spotlight.
We look back with pride on the founding and success of the GTB Lab. This unique laboratory has since grown into a regional and European leader in circular construction. Under the motto “Demolition and waste are a design flaw,” the lab demonstrates in practice how dynamic, modular, and reversible construction works. The GTB Lab—founded by architect Dr. Elma Durmisevic—now inspires entrepreneurs, policymakers, and other innovators every day to take steps toward a sustainable construction sector.
Last Thursday, various stakeholders gathered in a pleasant and warm atmosphere. Led by the founder and creative force behind GTB Lab, Director Elma Durmisevic, they took a journey through time together. They looked back on the early days of circular construction in the region.
During this gathering, we took an in-depth look at the crucial role played by Peter Bertholet, the former director of the Stadsregio Parkstad Limburg (inter-municipal body in South Limburg NL). Thanks to his astute leadership and his ability to make the right decisions at the right moments, he paved the way for a strong regional commitment to circular construction. Both the creation of the physical GTB Lab and the success of various European projects are inextricably linked to his dedication.
Elma Durmisevic looked back at circular construction in the region and how GTB Lab, with its diverse network focused on implementing innovative construction concepts and its expertise, could be leveraged to strengthen the infrastructure supporting the transition to circular construction in the region
During the meeting, Twan De Bruijn explained how the first European projects came about at the time. These projects gave our region a significant lead in innovation and knowledge compared to the rest of Europe.
Alderman Casper Gelderblom emphasized the solid foundation for the circular economy in construction that was established at that time. He reflected on how this foundation serves as a springboard for further accelerating and implementing the circular agenda in the Municipality of Heerlen, as well as the municipality’s strong ambition to accelerate the implementation of circular construction.
Oscar Vandeberg demonstrated how the principles of the GTB Lab are already being applied in practice. Examples include circular homes and the new, energy-neutral office of the Van de Kreeke Group (scheduled for late 2027), which will serve as the prime example of circular construction in the region.
This beautifully closes the circle: from the very first ideas and visions to a physical laboratory, and from regional knowledge to real-world projects. GTB Lab is already generating significant spin-offs in the construction sector—not only in the Netherlands, but also in Belgium and Germany.
GTB Lab demonstrates just how essential vision and perseverance from the public sector are. Thanks to this support, groundbreaking initiatives can succeed, strengthening the region’s economy and industry for the future.