The Executive Board of Erasmus University Rotterdam is investing in a future-proof and sustainable Campus Woudestein, under its initiative 'Building new perspectives', In addition to the Polak Building, a new multifunctional education building is being constructed with various teaching, study, work and meeting areas.

The building will be utilise the principles of circular construction and is completely energy-neutral and climate-proof. It features an innovative ventilation system that uses solar heat and wind, meaning almost no energy is needed to ventilate the building. 


The new building is covered in greenery and has a revolutionary ventilation system for natural fresh air
'The 8,500m² circular education building will be one of the most sustainable university buildings in the Netherlands. It will help further our ambitions to realize a sustainable and lively campus for our students and staff. A building with international allure, closely linked to the city, 'says Ellen van Schoten, member of the EUR Executive Board.

 

Phase III of the campus development programme

The plans for the new building are part of the €40m Campus development programme, which was introduced by Erasmus University a few years ago. Due to the enormous growth in student numbers there was a need for extra space that is flexible, facilitates learning, meets student’s needs and improves user wellbeing. 


Designed from the user perspective

In consultation with students and the university, Paul de Ruiter Architects translated the user's wishes into a contemporary building that has a natural connection with the campus and the adjacent Polak Building - also designed by them. Transparent facades provide a connection with the environment and natural daylight. Lots of greenery and wooden details provide a warm and pleasant experience and natural fresh air.

'It was nice to be part of the process and to see how the architect incorporated our ideas into the design. The result is a wide choice of study places with lots of light. Combined with the greenery, it gives a homely feeling ', says Elena Linkweiler, Global Business and Sustainability Erasmus University student.

 

A circular education building

The six-storey building is being built in a circular manner. This means it utilises as many recycled materials as possible including material from other campus buildings, which have been demolished. Once the building is operational, QR codes in the building provide information about the circularity and sustainability of items and materials.


Powered by nature

Thanks to a smart and integrated design strategy, the new education building is energy neutral. To achieve this, a revolutionary new natural ventilation system has been employed, which uses wind strength and solar heat. This naturally powered system saves a lot of energy and provides more fresh air than is usual in buildings, ensuring a pleasant indoor climate. In addition, the building produces sustainable energy through solar cells on the roof and uses sustainable heat pumps and cold/heat ground storage to cool and heat the building.


Flexible for the future

The building is flexible and adaptable for future use due to its large open floor areas without columns. Its layout is clear, uncluttered and flexible and spaces can be easily adapted in the future to meet changing user requirements, without major demolition or repair actions.