ROTTERDAM, 8 January 2025 – The former municipal office at Westersingel 18-20 will be transformed into housing, office space, and a new pedestrian connection linking the city centre with the Oude Westen neighbourhood. The project, led by a consortium including FULLHOUSE, aims to enhance accessibility and sustainability in the area.
Former municipal office at Westersingel to be redeveloped
The municipality of Rotterdam has sold the property at Westersingel 18-20 to a consortium led by FULLHOUSE. The winning proposal, named “de Herwaert,” includes plans to create 30 residential units, office and workshop spaces, and a garden that provides a pedestrian connection between the city centre and the Oude Westen neighbourhood.
De Herwaert. Redevelopment of Westersingel connects city and Oude Westen
Open tender process focused on quality
The redevelopment project was the result of a public tender process initiated by the municipality. Alongside offering a market-conforming price, the selected proposal was chosen based on the quality of its design and impact on the surrounding area. The process was facilitated by Fakton and Ooms Makelaars, with design contributions from ECHO Urban Design, Kraaijvanger Architects, and Studio RAP.
De Herwaert. Redevelopment of Westersingel connects city and Oude Westen
Housing and workspaces to revitalise the area
The project will convert the existing structure into 30 housing units, including 22 mid-range apartments and 8 higher-end units. The building will also house 540 m² of office space and 580 m² dedicated to workshop space, including a ceramics workshop by Makerij. A ground-level lobby and communal areas will feature transparent and inviting designs to enhance interaction and accessibility.
De Herwaert. Redevelopment of Westersingel connects city and Oude Westen
Improved connection between city centre and Oude Westen
A significant aspect of the redevelopment is the creation of a pedestrian path connecting the Westersingel to the neighbourhood park, Het Oude Westen. This passage, marked by glass and 3D-printed ceramic tiles, will also serve as a gateway to the ceramics workshop.
De Herwaert. Redevelopment of Westersingel connects city and Oude Westen
A garden for community and nature
The Herwaerttuin, a collective garden, will provide a green retreat with rich plantings, a water-retention pond, and green roofs on both the pavilion and main building. These features aim to attract local wildlife, such as birds and insects, while also serving as a space for community engagement.
Commitment to sustainability
The project prioritises sustainability by preserving the existing construction of Westersingel 18-20 and incorporating recycled materials from the demolition of neighbouring structures. The development of a final design is ongoing, with construction expected to commence in the latter half of 2026.
Address and directions
Westersingel 18-20: Connecting the city centre and the Oude Westen
The redevelopment of this site creates a new passage and community space close to the heart of Rotterdam. Visitors can access the area via the Westersingel, and it is a short walk from the bustling West Kruiskade and Nieuwe Binnenweg.
