ROTTERDAM, 18 December 2024 – The development of 741 new homes in the Max Euwe Kwartier at Brainpark Rotterdam officially begins today, marking a significant step towards transforming the area into a lively, green residential and working hub.
Construction of 741 homes begins in Brainpark Rotterdam
The construction of 741 homes in the Max Euwe Kwartier has commenced in Rotterdam's Brainpark area. The development includes 430 rental homes in the mid-segment and 311 in the higher and top segments. Rotterdam has secured €7.5 million in funding from the Dutch government to accelerate the delivery of the mid-rent homes.
Starting in 2025, an additional 750 homes will be built, comprising both social and mid-segment rental homes, as well as a residential care complex. The project is designed to integrate green spaces and waterways, reshaping Brainpark into a vibrant place to live, work, and study over the coming years.
Mixed-use spaces and sustainable development
The ground floors of the residential buildings will accommodate 7,600 m² of facilities, including offices, hospitality, retail spaces, and social amenities. Construction of more than 600 student and starter homes in Brainpark began earlier this year, signalling the area's transformation into a dynamic environment catering to diverse groups, including students, young professionals, and seniors.
The 741 homes are being developed by Bakkers|Hommen, a developer previously involved in transforming notable Rotterdam projects such as De Lee Towers. The urban masterplan was designed by Rotterdam-based architects GroupA and OKRA landscape architects, with input from local stakeholders.
A sustainable and accessible district
Wethouder Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Housing, and Construction) commented, “We are already building student housing in Brainpark, but there is a strong demand for social housing and rental homes in the mid and higher segments. This project will address that need. Future residents will enjoy a vibrant, green, and water-rich neighbourhood, easily accessible by public transport and bicycle.”
Tom Bakkers, CEO of Bakkers|Hommen, added, “The Max Euwe Kwartier development demonstrates how public and private partners can sustainably address urban housing needs. Through collaboration with the municipality and housing corporations, we are creating a future-proof area that will remain pleasant to live, work, and visit for years to come.”
From office park to residential hub
Located between Erasmus University and the A16 motorway, Brainpark has historically been a business district. However, plans are in motion to convert outdated office buildings into sustainable workplaces and homes. The redevelopment will see a total of 3,000 rental and owner-occupied homes constructed, with 30% allocated to social housing, 40% to mid-segment housing, and 30% to the higher market segment. Approximately 90,000 m² will remain dedicated to office and business spaces.
Part of the broader Oostflank vision
Brainpark is part of Rotterdam's Oostflank, spanning the area between Prins Alexander and Zuidplein. The city plans to build 30,000 new homes here to meet the growing demand for housing. This large-scale development is supported by additional infrastructure, including a new urban bridge connecting IJsselmonde and Kralingen, and improved public transport linking Zuidplein to Kralingse Zoom.
Directions to Brainpark
The Brainpark area is located between the Erasmus University and the A16 motorway, making it easily accessible by car and public transport. The Kralingse Zoom metro station is nearby, providing quick connections to the city centre and other parts of Rotterdam. The neighbourhood's proximity to the green Kralingse Bos and Plas also enhances its appeal for recreation and leisure.
