Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
On the Meidoornsingel in Rotterdam, Van Omme & De Groot is working on a building that brings together care, living and community in a contemporary way. De Molenlei, Aafje's new care complex, will soon offer 78 residents a safe and comfortable place with all the amenities that modern care requires. For project leader Johan Teeuw, it is a project that shows how specialized and integral care construction is today.
For Van Omme & De Groot, the project began in 2019, having won the selection based on a competition for the new building. It is the Rotterdam-based family firm's first project for Aafje, but immediately a collaboration that feels natural.
The Molenlei accommodates people with dementia who cannot live independently. Their apartment is compact but complete: a private sleeping area, bathroom, closet and privacy. “They are luxurious rooms,” says Teeuw. “In addition to the private domain, shared living rooms and kitchens form the heart of the living groups. That's where residents meet, with care close at hand.”
On the same site originally stood the church of the R.C. Parish of Saint Bernadette. “The church had the land and Aafje had the money, so they joined forces,” Teeuw explained. The old church was dilapidated and was demolished, but will now get a contemporary place back in the new building. “We are building a church building in the property, with apartments around it. The church has private and communal spaces and is over nine feet high.” The stained glass from the old church will be restored and put back as a recognizable element for the neighborhood.
Construction had a challenging start. The original piles proved unsuitable due to washout, so the team had to switch to precast combi piles. “That caused delays,” says Teeuw. “In May 2024, pile driving resumed and we were able to go up in height.” Logistics also required smart choices. The floors are not accessible from the outside. “We therefore chose to leave a facade section open on the side over four floors and leave the supply scaffolding there. Until a month ago, we lifted everything through there, and then the facade was sealed with window frames and masonry. That was logistically very nice to see.”
The complex will be fully sustainable, with air/water heat pumps from ancillary contractor Bectro Installatietechniek and solar panels on the roof. A peak load gas connection will remain available only for the cold winter months.
With De Molenlei, Van Omme & De Groot is building not just a new care building, but a future-oriented concept in which living, care and community reinforce each other. It is a project that shows how broad and specialized modern care construction is, and how good craftsmanship and cooperation come together.
