ROTTERDAM, 5 June 2023 – The centenary of the foundation of Volkskracht, a momentous occasion steeped in Rotterdam's history, was marked by the unveiling of an engaging mural at the city's Hofbogen.

A century of Volkskracht

Harking back to 7 November 1923, harbour baron Willem Burger established the foundation of Volkskracht (Stichting Bevordering van Volkskracht), aiming to foster the people's strength of Rotterdam's citizens. To celebrate a century of Volkskracht, a mural featuring a poem by Moze Naél was revealed at the Hofbogen by the Opperclaes artists' collective.

A mural on the Hofbogen wall

The large, five-metre-high wall of Hofbogen, situated near Boekhorststraat and the Grafisch Lyceum, now exhibits the word “VOLKSKRACHT” in vibrant letters, a design envisioned by the Opperclaes artists. The word stretches over 65 meters along the wall, incorporating Moze Naél's poem: an ode to Rotterdam, specifically composed for Volkskracht. Excerpts from the poem are set to be featured in two other yet to be determined locations in the city. Visitors can understand more about Volkskracht and its work by scanning the accompanying QR code.

A gift for Rotterdam

“The poem is a birthday gift from Volkskracht, for all Rotterdammers,” shared Jacqueline Frima, the chair of Volkskracht. "We hope people will pause, look up, and think: yes, this is Rotterdam."

A tapestry of characters form Rotterdam

The mural and the poem were officially unveiled today. The Hofbogen wall has no defined boundary, and the letter shapes are flexible, echoing the diverse characters of Rotterdam, according to Linda van der Vleuten of the Opperclaes collective. “There is no city with more 'volkskracht' (people's strength), resilience, and vigour than Rotterdam,” she said, explaining that the bright colours are intended to enliven the otherwise dull street.

The word stretches over 65 meters along the wall, incorporating Moze Naél's poem: an ode to Rotterdam, specifically composed for Volkskracht

Directions to the Hofbogen mural

To reach the mural, follow the directions to De Hofbogen, located near Boekhorststraat and the Grafisch Lyceum in Rotterdam. This vibrant mural is situated in a dynamic neighbourhood filled with creativity and architectural gems.

ROTTERDAM, 24 May 2023 – In a significant development for Rotterdam's Oostflank, plans have been unveiled for the addition of 30,000 new homes in the area. This ambitious project, encompassing a new city bridge, public transport improvements, and an increase in jobs and local amenities, promises to reshape the city's eastern districts. Public feedback on the proposed changes is welcomed, marking the commencement of an exciting chapter in Rotterdam's urban development.

Public transport and housing expansion

The city bridge between Kralingen and IJsselmonde, bolstered by a fast tram line connecting Kralingse Zoom and Zuidplein, paves the way for extensive residential construction on the city's east flank. Alderman Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Construction, and Housing) commented on the project's ambitious scope, “With 30,000 additional homes, we are assisting a substantial number of Rotterdam house seekers. But our city government has more than just providing a roof over your head in mind. We aim to create delightful living spaces! Places where children can attend school, public transport is easily accessible, and where residents can enjoy sports and green spaces in their neighbourhood.”

Most of the new homes, facilities, and businesses are planned near existing and new public transport hubs, including Rotterdam Alexander Station, Kralingse Zoom metro station, future Stadionpark Station, and Zuidplein metro station (near Hart van Zuid). There is also a desire to build additional homes in existing residential areas such as Het Lage Land, Prinsenland, De Esch, Bloemhof, and Hillesluis, whilst preserving the neighbourhoods' distinct character.

Illustration of the view from Riederlaan in Feijenoord of the new Rotterdam Stadiumpark station.

Towards a greener and more sustainable living

The city government is also investing in community gardens and local parks – green spaces in the immediate living environment that everyone can use. Alderman Vincent Karremans (Public Space and Mobility) stated, “Every square meter in the city must compete with many functions, such as greenery, parking, public transport, and housing. Therefore, we are planning to balance these requirements while creating a pleasant living environment.” These initiatives include connecting existing and new residential neighbourhoods through green networks and linking regional green areas.

Sports facilities and allotment gardens

While the number of sports fields in the East flank will remain constant, many sports clubs will relocate to a new sports complex in the Oostflank area, as current sports field locations are suitable for housing construction. Over the next decade, three allotment gardens in the area will make way for new homes, sports fields, and other amenities close to those homes. The city government is discussing transition and compensation arrangements with the allotment garden boards.

Public feedback

The city council invites public feedback on the changes proposed in the Rotterdam's urban vision from 30 May to 14 July. These perspectives may lead to adjustments in the plan. After the summer, the city council will make a decision on the final revision of the urban vision, taking into account the submitted views.

Oostflank Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 30 May 2023 - Renowned for its innovative architectural developments, Rotterdam adds another accolade to its record, with a local project, SAWA, having received the Popular Choice recognition in the 2023 Architizer A+ Sustainability Award.

Honouring sustainable designs

The A+ Sustainability Awards, a branch of the prestigious Architizer A+ Awards, aim to celebrate and encourage the most sustainable architectural projects globally. This year, SAWA, a residential project still under construction, was selected amongst five finalists in the "Unbuilt Sustainable Residential Project" category, after assessment by an esteemed jury of international sustainability experts. Votes cast by Architizer readers from May 1 to May 12 determined the popular choice winner.

SAWA: Pioneering sustainable residential architecture

SAWA is being recognised as a ground-breaking design, even before its construction is complete. The aim behind SAWA (meaning 'together' in Surinamese) is to create a zero-carbon building contributing to climate change solutions and promoting a healthier future.

The project introduces the concept of a "shared value" to the neighbourhood and city, fostering elements like carbon storage through wood construction, enhancing biodiversity, shared spaces including a vegetable garden on the deck, and the creation of affordable, circular residences where individuals care for each other and nature. The scheme comprises 109 dwellings, each with spacious green terraces averaging 40 m². Shared amenities such as mobility options, tools, and a public deck vegetable garden aim to cultivate a vibrant, caring community.

The construction's innovative factor lies in its certified Nice building system, positioning SAWA as the first demonstrable example of a 50-meter-high residential building in Europe entirely constructed from wood in a circular manner.

SAWA Wins 2023 Architizer Sustainability Award

Understanding the A+ Sustainability Awards

The Architizer A+ Awards, known as the most significant award scheme lauding the finest architecture globally, has introduced the A+ Sustainability Awards this year. Recognising that the design and construction industry is responsible for almost 40% of the world's carbon emissions, the A+ Sustainability Awards are intended to acknowledge architecture and design firms proactively working towards a more sustainable built environment.

Directions to SAWA

SAWA is located in the heart of Rotterdam's Lloydkwartier, a vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhood on the Maas river's right bank. The area is well-served by public transportation, with numerous tram and bus routes, and a short distance from the city's central train station. Rich in history and character, Lloydkwartier offers a unique blend of renovated heritage buildings and modern architecture.

ROTTERDAM, 24 May 2023 – A new development in the world of sustainable travel has put Rotterdam at the forefront. The city has been identified as the leading global destination in the 2023 City Index for Mindful Travellers, curated by travel search engine KAYAK.

Kayak City Index

In the aim of aiding travellers in making informed and sustainable choices, KAYAK's City Index for Mindful Travellers has been published as an interactive guide. The index facilitates the consideration of sustainability aspects when planning a journey. This guide includes factors such as airport CO2 accreditation, local transport options, and air quality.

The index comprises popular city destinations worldwide and has analysed 167 cities in 63 countries based on 28 factors. This comprehensive evaluation allows travellers to make more informed decisions about their trips. Furthermore, the results of the Index can be personalised and filtered according to the factors travellers deem most important.

Why Rotterdam and Amsterdam lead the pack

Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Graz form the top three cities in KAYAK's index. Rotterdam achieved a perfect score of 100, marking it as the prime destination for sustainable travellers. This recognition is attributed to the city's advanced CO2 management system at the airport, certified by the Airport Carbon Accreditation, a significant number of affordably priced accommodations qualified by Booking.com's Sustainable Travel programme, and the city's efficient public transport and impressive network of cycle paths.

Amsterdam, with a score of 93, secured the second position. The city is renowned for its bike-friendly nature and car-free streets, along with good options for environmentally friendly rental cars and ample EV charging points. Graz in Austria is the third-ranked city, scoring 91 thanks largely to its excellent train system, numerous EV charging points, and a car-free UNESCO World Heritage city centre.

Acknowledging the achievement

Peer Bueller, Chief Financial Officer at KAYAK, expressed his admiration for the Netherlands' performance in this international ranking. He stated, “It is impressive to see the Netherlands emerge as a leader in this international ranking. We perform well amid fierce competition across Europe. This achievement is the result of years of effort by the Netherlands to promote responsible travel. Travellers can now reap the benefits when exploring Dutch cities”.

The complete top 10 list

According to KAYAK's City Index for Mindful Travellers, the top 10 cities are:

1. Rotterdam, Netherlands
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
3. Graz, Austria
4. Trondheim, Norway
5. Munich, Germany
6. Helsinki, Finland
7. Stockholm, Sweden
8. Zurich, Switzerland
9. Gothenburg, Sweden
10. Vienna, Austria.

Sustainable travel beyond Europe

While the Netherlands and Europe are performing exceptionally in the rankings, it does not imply that the rest of the world should be overlooked by conscious travellers. Several notable mentions across regions include Vancouver in Canada, commended for its air quality; Tokyo in Japan for its local markets, theatres, and art galleries, often accessible only on foot or by designated cycling paths; Santiago in Chile, recognised for the largest drop in flight prices in the off-season and excellent CO2 management at the airport; and Tunis in Tunisia, leading in the Middle East and Africa, offering many close-knit markets for second-hand goods, thereby immersing travellers in local culture while supporting the local economy.

Directions to Rotterdam

For those interested in visiting and experiencing the sustainable city of Rotterdam first-hand, the city is conveniently located and easily accessible from various parts of the Netherlands and Europe. Rotterdam's advanced public transportation system, including trains, trams, and buses, makes it easy to navigate the city. The city is also known for its extensive cycling paths, perfect for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.

The city's general area is marked by its modern architecture, bustling port, and numerous green spaces, offering a unique blend of urban development and sustainability. Rotterdam is home to the world-renowned Erasmus University and several museums, including the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal, adding to the cultural richness of the area.