Starting construction this spring, Floating House Office Rotterdam (FOR) is the new headquarters of the Global Commission on Adaptation (GCA). Constructed entirely out of timber, the floating design is energy-neutral and includes a number of innovative sustainability measures, such as a heat exchange through the harbour water. It is anticipated to be housed in the Rijnhaven in Rotterdam for approximately 5-10 years.
The use of wood as the main construction material reduces the carbon footprint of the building. Overhanging floors create permanent sun shading, which allows for large windows and daylight flooding into the office floors. In addition to the offices, the floating building will house a restaurant with a large outdoor terrace, as well as a floating swimming pool in the Maas River.
The construction of FOR will take place offsite (at the Van Leeuwen grounds at the Maashaven), from where it will be shipped to the Rijnhaven in Rotterdam.
Powerhouse Company is responsible for this project from its earliest sketch phase. The construction system is designed by Bartels & Vedder in collaboration with Solid Timber.
