Albert Schweitzerflat, Rotterdam | Focus on quality and unburdening

On to homes that are natural gas-free and sustainable

In Rotterdam, major maintenance is being carried out on the 175 rental homes in the Albert Schweitzerflat. The homes must be upgraded from energy label E/F to A, must make the switch to all-electric and be connected to district heating. This intensive maintenance will be done in occupied condition.

For Giesbers Rotterdam, the Albert Schweitzer flat is the fourth ERA flat it has tackled since 2017. The flats are virtually identical and that gives Giesbers an advantage. "In structural terms, we have done this three times now and that is noticeable. Still, we want to keep improving. In the third phase we minimized the inconvenience to residents; now the focus is on even higher quality."

Quality

Wouter van Iterson, project manager at Giesbers Rotterdam, thinks the focus on quality is a normal thing. "When you buy a car, you expect it to drive. You don't think about checking the entire engine with an expert. In the same way, Woonstad Rotterdam should be able to trust that the construction is right the first time." To fulfill this ambition, there is close supervision on the Albert Schweitzerflat construction site. At the same time, residents are being supported in every way possible to get through the major maintenance of their homes as peacefully as possible. "That starts with good communication," says Van Iterson. "In many ways, an external communications agency is informing the residents about what awaits them. It is deliberately an external agency. That makes them easier to approach for the residents."

Unburdening facilities

There are also temporary facilities that make it easier for residents to continue living. At café Renové, they can have a cup of coffee to escape the crowds.
In the washroom unit, they can do laundry or shower. At a nearby eatery, they can even have a bite to eat - against the return of a voucher - and attend a workshop that teaches them how to cook on their new induction plates. "Caring for the residents was an emphatic desire of Woonstad Rotterdam," says Dr. K. K., a resident of the building.

Natural gas-free and sustainable

"Unburdening is also a necessity," Van Iterson believes. "The facades, central stairwell, common areas and entrance will be given a new look. All homes will have their own connection to district heating, and in the homes the bathrooms, toilets and kitchens will be replaced. Even the basements will be tackled. The older residents in particular could really use some support with this. Fortunately, they get a lot in return. They will soon be the residents of a home that is natural gas-free and sustainable."