New multifunctional addition to Rotterdam

City icon intertwines residential and sports facilities

Huis op Zuid is an impressive new construction project in Rotterdam, designed to give a positive impetus to the Afrikaanderwijk and surrounding areas. This multifunctional building combines sports and swimming facilities with residential apartments and various commercial spaces, making it a focal point for both residents and visitors to the city.

The Kempense bouwgroep Groep van Roey nv is playing a crucial role in the realization of Huis op Zuid. Known for its expertise in building swimming pools and sports complexes, it is bringing its experience and craftsmanship to this project. For Huis op Zuid, it is responsible for the sports section, which includes a 25-meter swimming pool, an instruction pool and a sports hall with divisible hall sections. Ben Lotry, project manager for van Roey: "This project stands out in the neighborhood because of its high quality. The design shows a keen eye for detail and uses first-class materials."

Feijenoord sports center: beating heart of House on South

An important part of Huis op Zuid is the new Feijenoord Sports Center. This center offers extensive facilities, including a swimming pool, a sports hall, catering facilities and covered bicycle storage. The sports center replaces the old Afrikaanderbad and will offer a wide range of sports activities for schools, associations and individuals. In addition, the sports complex will be equipped with innovative technologies such as a movable floor in the pool, which can be adjusted for various activities.

"Indeed, one of the biggest structural challenges was in the swimming pool," Lotry continued. "There, six heavy beams had to be installed, each 21 meters long and 1.80 meters high, with post-tensioned reinforcement. This was technically very complex to accomplish."

High degree of finish prevails

The 50-meter-high residential tower contains 104 mid-range rental apartments. These apartments are partly reserved for essential professions such as teachers, caregivers and police officers, contributing to the diversity and accessibility of housing in Rotterdam. Lotry: "The project's high level of finishing is also very evident in the apartments themselves. This is reflected in details such as room-high doors, baseboards seamlessly integrated into the walls and the refined finish of the window frames."

Combining aesthetics and durability

The building, designed by Koen van Velsen architects, places a strong emphasis on sustainability. It features a green roof, triple glazing and solar panels, all of which contribute to a low carbon footprint. In addition, the building is made of robust materials and features energy-efficient installations. The exterior facade is notable for abstract sports graphics sandblasted into micro concrete, giving it a unique and distinctive look. "Finally, the building benefits from plenty of natural light, which contributes to the pleasant atmosphere inside," Lotry concludes. "Combined with the usual sustainability measures, this ensures that the House on South has a long lifespan and minimal ecological footprint. We are quite satisfied with the final result of this very challenging project."