ROTTERDAM, 18 March 2025 – SAWA, Rotterdam's pioneering wooden residential building, has successfully allocated its middle-income apartments, prioritising key workers and enhancing urban sustainability.
Introducing SAWA: Rotterdam's wooden residential landmark
SAWA stands as Rotterdam's first fully wooden residential building, reaching 50 metres in height. Located in the Lloydkwartier district, a neighbourhood with a rich maritime history, SAWA's design incorporates generous green terraces, referencing Eastern rice fields and contributing to urban biodiversity. The building comprises 109 apartments, with a mix of owner-occupied and rental units, including 50 designated for middle-income tenants.
Middle-income housing in SAWA allocated to key workers
The allocation process for 50 middle-income apartments in SAWA has been completed. A significant portion of these homes has been designated for individuals working in social professions and those transitioning from social housing.
Out of the 50 apartments, 43 were allocated to individuals who met one or more priority criteria designed to support social inclusiveness. The project aligns with Rotterdam's broader housing objectives by combining homeownership opportunities, sustainable timber construction, and community-focused living spaces.
The allocation figures reveal that:
- 28% of the homes were given to individuals working in education.
- 25% were allocated to healthcare workers.
- 8% were assigned to police officers.
In addition, 15 tenants are moving out of social housing managed by housing associations, opening those properties for new residents in need of affordable housing.
Social and sustainable impact
The SAWA development reflects the city’s commitment to sustainable urban planning. Chantal Zeegers, Rotterdam’s Alderman for Building, Housing, and Climate, praised the project:
“With SAWA, we demonstrate that affordable housing and sustainability can go hand in hand. Thanks to priority rules, key workers can continue living in Rotterdam close to their workplaces and communities. This project also supports mobility within the social housing sector, which helps us make a tangible impact on the city.”
SAWA’s development aligns with Rotterdam’s Middle-Income Housing Action Plan (Actieplan Middenhuur), aimed at providing affordable housing for middle-income earners, ensuring they can remain in the city.
Developer's vision
Mark Compeer, co-founder of NICE Developers, commented on the project:
“This is precisely why we developed SAWA. With these priority rules, we contribute to a fairer housing market and prove that affordable homes can be built even in Rotterdam’s most sustainable building. We are thrilled that so many key workers for the city have found a home here.”
Collaboration and execution
The rental process was handled by NICE Developers on behalf of Focus on Impact in collaboration with Schep Vastgoedmanagers. Further cooperation with housing associations Havensteder and Woonbron helped increase the project's impact.
Address and directions
SAWA is located in Rotterdam’s Lloydkwartier, a developing area known for its blend of modern architecture and proximity to the river Maas.
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