Urban development - RotterdamStyle.com

Revitalising Ommoord: The Romeynshof development

Bryan van Putten Urban development 14 June 2023

ROTTERDAM, 14 June 2023 – A new era beckons for Rotterdam's Ommoord district as a sustainable, mixed-use development named Romeynshof is set to reshape the local landscape and community experience.

Development agreement of Romeynshof signed

The development agreement for Romeynshof, a Paris Proof project, was signed by AM, an area developer, and the municipality of Rotterdam on 14 June 2023 at the Provada real estate fair in Amsterdam. This agreement marks a significant milestone in the realisation of the Romeynshof project, which will see the transformation of an existing cultural and health centre into a resilient area development.

The vision behind Romeynshof

The Romeynshof project, known by its working title 'Populus', is a novel initiative that combines a cultural district and health centre with 200 rental and purchase homes, a considerable portion of which fall in the middle segment in terms of affordability. The development also includes a library, an SKVR (Centre for Art and Culture Activities), a Centrum Jeugd en Gezin, and the ERGO research centre, in addition to new housing for Stichting Zonboog's health centre.

In the forthcoming period, the project will be further developed with future users and residents towards a final design.

Photo: Jos Melchers, Director of Area Development (Municipality of Rotterdam), Annemarie Jol, Director of Development (AM).

Embracing sustainability

The project fully aligns with the objectives of Paris Proof, with all 200 homes planned to be built using wood. The design of the four buildings included in the project comes from LEVS Architects, with an emphasis on connecting the various social and health functions with the housing units. BAM Wonen is scheduled to handle the project's realisation, set to commence in the first quarter of 2025.

Populus: the green heart of Ommoord

Populus, a name derived from the old poplar tree situated at the centre of the development, is poised to become the green and social heart of the Ommoord district in Rotterdam. The urban design is inspired by the former polder structure and seamlessly blends into the post-war high-rise ensemble designed by the renowned urban designer Lotte Stam-Beese. A significant area adjacent to the metro line will be designed as an ecological linear park connecting to the main park structure of Ommoord. This ecological, water-rich zone extends into the core of Populus, creating a vibrant space for everyone.

Location and Directions

Populus is conveniently located next to the Romeynshof metro station, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The Ommoord district is known for its green spaces and community-focused amenities, adding to the appeal of this new development.

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SAWA Wins 2023 Architizer Sustainability Award

Bryan van Putten Urban development 30 May 2023

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.

SAWA winner at World Architecture Festival 2021

Bryan van Putten Urban development 06 December 2021

During the World Architecture Festival 2021, which took place online from 1 to 3 December, both the wooden residential building SAWA and the transformed warehouse Fenix I were awarded by the juries.

SAWA won the first prize in the category 'Future Projects - Experimental'. In this category, the sustainable residential building competed against seven other nominated projects. Fenix I finished in second place, Highly Commended, in the category 'Completed Buildings - New & Old', thereby beating twenty nominated projects.

Sixth award for SAWA

With the start of construction of SAWA in sight, the first award for WAF brings SAWA's total to no less than six award nominations. Previously, the building won first prize in the Green Good Design Awards and the ARC20 Innovation Award, was Highly Recommended at the MIPIM/AR Future Project Awards, received a Special Mention at the Architizer A+ Awards and was selected for the Iconic Awards for Innovative Architecture.

SAWA is being developed by Nice Developers and ERA Contour. Mei architects and planners is responsible for the design. The revolutionary concept of SAWA demonstrates the progressive attitude of clients and architect in the field of circular timber construction, biodiversity and the creation of healthy communities.

The conviction and vigour to not only design but also realize a concept like SAWA is fed by the ambition to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and the achievement of (inter)national climate goals. SAWA, also called the 'healthiest building in the Netherlands', is thus an exemplary project for new generations, an important step in the sustainability objectives and demonstrable proof that it can be done differently.

About WAF

The World Architecture Festival is the largest inclusive and interactive architecture awards programme in the world. The festival attracts thousands of entries each year (in the categories Completed Building, Future Project and Interior) and is a unique meeting place for architects, clients and suppliers. Because of COVID-19, the festival did not take place live in Lisbon this year, but online, from 1 to 3 December.

Urban development in Crooswijk with biobased wood construction

Bryan van Putten Urban development 24 May 2023

ROTTERDAM, 24 May 2023 – An innovative housing concept is set to transform Crooswijk, a district of Rotterdam. Led by KAW architects, this initiative aims to develop biobased wooden homes that are both affordable and sustainable, providing a solution to the complex urban challenges of our time.

A vision for a sustainable Crooswijk

In the near future, multiple sites within Crooswijk are to be filled with these biobased wooden homes. KAW's novel wooden housing concept promises to yield significantly less CO2 emissions, offering a sustainable and affordable alternative for residents. The plan also includes various measures to alleviate heat stress, create buffers for rainwater, enhance biodiversity, and improve public spaces.

To ensure minimal disruption to residents during the construction phase, a tailored approach is being implemented.

KERN by KAW: A sustainable housing concept

The ideas behind this ambitious project were initially conceptualized for biobased developer Boombuilds. The principle, known as KERN by KAW, comprises a ready-made core or supporting 3D module for modular wooden construction. This module houses all installations, wet rooms, and facilities, thus creating a flexible and cost-effective foundation for home layout. The approach enables an open, loft-like interior design.

Urban development in Crooswijk with biobased wood construction

Partnering for a greener future

KAW, in collaboration with the Slokker Bouwgroep, is applying the innovative 'Natuurlijk Crooswijk' wood building concept to create an aesthetically pleasing living environment that contributes to a healthy indoor climate. This concept offers numerous environmental benefits, including less harmful emissions during the construction process due to the reduced need for transport movements.

Enriching the community

The housing concept is designed to optimally utilize the capacity of the district, thereby providing affordable homes for both current and future Crooswijk residents. The additional living space created will also serve to cater to different segments and broaden the housing offer.

Urban development in Crooswijk with biobased wood construction

A tailored approach

Drawing from previous successful projects, KAW is planning to approach this renovation as a series of subprojects, allowing for the step-by-step development of processes and construction techniques. This approach ensures that the needs of the residents are prioritized while also providing opportunities for learning and adaptation.

Preserving character and embracing change

Where possible, existing homes will be renovated. For locations where this is not feasible, KAW aims to restore the street pattern and align with the existing character of the district. The current dominance of parking in public spaces will be addressed, with an integrated urban development plan being drawn up in cooperation with the Rotterdam municipality.

Urban development in Crooswijk with biobased wood construction

Crooswijk

Crooswijk, a historic district in Rotterdam, is easily accessible by public transport. Rotterdam Centraal Station is a mere 10-minute drive away, while several bus and tram lines service the area. Crooswijk is a vibrant community filled with a mix of modern and historic architecture. The district boasts a variety of local shops, cafes, and green spaces, providing a quaint charm amidst the bustling city of Rotterdam.

SAWA Rotterdam wins international Green GOOD DESIGN Award

Bryan van Putten Urban development 22 April 2021

SAWA, the all-wood residential building being built in Rotterdam, has won the Green GOOD DESIGN Award 2021; an international prize that is awarded annually to exceptional projects that contribute to a healthier and more sustainable world.

ROTTERDAM, 21 April 2021 - The innovative Rotterdam residential building SAWA has received the Green GOOD DESIGN™ Award 2021. The building was designed by Mei architects and planners and commissioned by Nice Developers and ERA Contour. In November last year, SAWA also won the first prize of the ARC20 Innovation Award. Although the building is still in the design phase, it is already in the limelight.

The Green GOOD DESIGN™ Award, presented by the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies and The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design, is an international prize that is awarded annually to exceptional projects that contribute to a healthier and more sustainable world. SAWA was praised for its innovative, daring and circular concept, making it a deserved winner in the Architecture category.

Healthiest building in the Netherlands

SAWA will be the first all-wood 50-metre-high residential building in Rotterdam. Exceptional about the project is that the building is constructed in CLT (cross laminated timber), including the main supporting structure. The building's appearance is distinguished by the generous green terraces and is designed entirely from the perspective of plants and animals, thus enhancing the biodiversity of the neighbourhood and the city. This 'healthiest building in the Netherlands' will create a place that adds value to the neighbourhood by stimulating communities, a common deck, shared functions and connection with existing local initiatives. The future residents are actively involved in the developments of SAWA and regular participation meetings are organized. The official sale is scheduled for the summer of this year, and the aim is to start construction of SAWA before the end of 2021.

SAWA Rotterdam wins international Green GOOD DESIGN Award 2021 📷 Mei architects and planners

About Green GOOD DESIGN™ Awards

GOOD DESIGN™ was founded in 1950 in Chicago by Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Edgar Kaufmann Jr. The goal was to gain a wider public understanding for modern design. As in 1950, when modern design took a new direction in design history, Green GOOD DESIGN™ now seeks to influence consumer habits, restructure the production process, influence the design of cities and public spaces and raise awareness about our limited global resources and the disappearance of clean air, clean earth and clean water. The founders of GOOD DESIGN™ in the 1950s introduced modern design with passion, innovation and revolutionary zeal. With Green GOOD DESIGN®, today's organizers strive to do the same.