ROTTERDAM, 6 October 2025 – Construction of The Sax (De Sax), the striking new high-rise on the Wilhelminapier, is officially confirmed. On 1 October, developers BPD | Bouwfonds Gebiedsontwikkeling and Synchroon signed a turnkey agreement with Achmea Real Estate and NLV, acting for pension funds PME and PMT. The deal secures 822 rental homes, including 458 mid-range units, within the 180-metre-tall tower.
Long-term collaboration delivers results
The agreement marks the outcome of years of cooperation between national and municipal partners. The project became financially viable through support from the national SBI scheme and the municipal SBR subsidy.
Achmea Real Estate, on behalf of PME pension fund, and NLV, on behalf of PMT, each acquire 411 rental apartments in The Sax. The transaction was arranged with assistance from Capital Fit.
Construction will be carried out by BAM Bouw en Techniek, which has been closely involved in the design process since 2018.
Design and urban setting
Situated at the southern tip of the Wilhelminapier, The Sax will serve as the final addition to the skyline that defines the Kop van Zuid. Designed by Rotterdam-based architecture firm MVRDV, the 55-storey building will feature a distinctive, interconnected silhouette that complements the neighbouring towers Boston and Seattle.
The Sax will contain 916 homes in total, including 822 rental units and 94 owner-occupied apartments. The design integrates both public and private gathering areas: communal living rooms, a roof terrace at 100 metres, an automated parking garage and a shared bicycle facility for 1,800 bikes.
Community and sustainability
Beyond housing, the development aims to strengthen community life on the pier. Shared spaces are designed to encourage social connection among residents, while sustainable features such as efficient energy systems and reduced car dependence align with Rotterdam’s broader climate goals.
The project is expected to further enhance the appeal of the Wilhelminapier — a district that has become synonymous with modern architecture and riverside living.
Construction timeline
Construction will officially begin on 28 October 2025, marked by a ceremonial start with all partners. The Sax represents the culmination of fifteen years of joint development by Synchroon (part of TBI Holdings) and BPD.
Completion is scheduled for 2030, after which the Wilhelminapier will be fully developed — a defining moment in the transformation of Rotterdam’s southern waterfront.
