SAWA reaches highest point with falcon ‘penthouse’

ROTTERDAM, 17 September 2024 – Rotterdam’s SAWA building has reached its highest point with a notable addition: a specially designed falcon nest box, marking the building's unique ecological contribution. The 50-metre wooden structure is celebrated for its sustainable and nature-inclusive design.

SAWA, a pioneering circular wooden residential building in Rotterdam, has reached its highest point. The milestone was symbolically marked by the installation of a specially designed peregrine falcon nest box on the rooftop. The building, which stands at 50 metres, is noted for its innovative and sustainable construction methods.

Construction officially commenced earlier this year, following the wood-building phase's inauguration by Rotterdam alderwoman Chantal Zeegers. In just 26 weeks, the construction teams from ERA Contour and Derix Group completed the structure’s full height. Building with wood at this scale posed unique challenges, but through collaboration and expertise, the team achieved this key step.

A landmark in sustainable construction

SAWA’s circular wooden construction sets it apart in Rotterdam’s evolving architectural landscape. Positioned in the heart of the city, the building represents more than just residential space. The use of wood, a renewable resource that absorbs rather than emits CO2, aligns with the goals set in the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees by 2050.

According to Maries Jumelet of ERA Contour, this construction project is particularly significant: “Building a 50-metre wooden structure in such a short period presents structural challenges, but reaching this milestone is a major achievement in sustainable construction. With the falcon ‘penthouse,’ SAWA offers a home not only for people but also for nature.”

SAWA Rotterdam. Photo credit: Ossip

Enhancing urban biodiversity

SAWA’s nature-inclusive design features 700 metres of plant containers and over 3,000 site-specific plants from 19 different species. Furthermore, 140 bird nest boxes, including one specifically designed for a peregrine falcon, are integrated into the building’s façade. This approach enhances urban biodiversity, connecting with the surrounding ecological systems.

Bureau Stadsnatuur’s ecologist Niels de Zwarte, involved in the project, explains that SAWA is a valuable asset to the area's biodiversity: “In the largely stone-built Lloydkwartier, SAWA creates essential habitats for birds, butterflies, and bees, contributing to the local environment.”

Sustainable building design with integrated biodiversity features including green balconies, sparrow towers, and biodiversity roofs for bird and bat species – SAWA project by Mei architects and planners

Falcon nest box: A new home for Rotterdam’s birds of prey

Rotterdam has become a popular habitat for peregrine falcons. According to Bureau Stadsnatuur, these birds prefer to nest on tall buildings, providing them with a clear vantage point to hunt their prey. SAWA’s location by the Maas River offers an ideal environment, as the falcon feeds not only on city pigeons but also on birds following the river. Currently, nine pairs of peregrine falcons reside in Rotterdam, and it remains to be seen when a tenth pair will occupy the nest atop SAWA.

Completion of SAWA draws near

As SAWA’s construction reaches its peak, the building’s completion is now in sight. The structure will include 50 mid-market rental flats, 20 private-sector rental homes, and 39 owner-occupied apartments. The first residential units are expected to be delivered by mid-2025. A ground-floor space will accommodate a hospitality venue and a community facility, with a search for an operator underway.

Directions to SAWA

SAWA is located in the Lloydkwartier, an area known for its mix of modern residential developments and proximity to the Maas River. The neighbourhood is well-served by public transport, including tram lines and nearby metro stations, making it accessible from the city centre. The area is also a short walk from Rotterdam’s iconic waterfront.

Partners involved

SAWA is being developed by NICE Developers and TBI enterprise ERA Contour, which is also responsible for the building's construction. The wooden elements are supplied and assembled by Derix Group, with Mei architects and planners overseeing the architectural design. Focus on Impact acts as the investor for the rental properties.