Culture, education and media in Ridderkerk

Building a COM-plex building

Right next to the Gemini College, Ridderkerk is getting a striking neighbor. The new Culture, Education and Media Building - COM for short - will not be thirteen-in-a-dozen. Think: dance classes next to math and regional news next to a concert hall. Youth center De Loods, pop venue De Gooth, RTV Ridderkerk, ToBe cultural center and the Gemini College itself will have their place there. Jongekrijg Maasbouw had the clean task of casting this colorful collection of functions in concrete, wood and steel.

"The building consists of separate wings with their own entrances and high noise requirements," says Jelske Sterkman. She is business manager at Jongekrijg Maasbouw of Puttershoek, which is part of Bouwgroep Schrijver. "Those ambitious goals require sharp choices architecturally."

In October 2024, the first pile went into the ground; now the highest point has been reached and the roof is on. Inside, the building is taking on more and more character. What immediately stands out are the bamboo wall finishes and RECKLI walls: precast concrete wall panels with a wood structure. "These have to be fitted tightly, without holes or fraying. Real craftsmanship, then," states Sterkman.

Building between classes 

With a school a few meters away, building with policy is a must. Jongekrijg Maasbouw designed the site so that the schoolyard remained accessible, including an adapted bicycle route. "The consultation with the school and municipality on this goes very smoothly," says Sterkman. "We really do it together." And that's exactly how this entire project is being handled. With a solid team, short lines and an eye for detail. By early 2026, the building will be ready for music, education and everything in between.