From Past to Future

Once the headquarters of Ferro, built in 1969, this building was transformed into Ferro Offices, a vibrant hub for a new generation of maritime and industrial innovators shaping the future of the port. Situated in Rotterdam’s Galileïpark (M4H) and designed by GROUP A for the Port of Rotterdam, the project transforms an outdated office into a sustainable, collaborative environment, reflecting the ambitions of a circular and future-proof Rotterdam Makers District.

A Bold New Identity

Within the rugged industrial landscape of Merwe-Vierhavens, Ferro Offices stands out with a fresh, layered presence. An additional floor, timber façades with sun-shaded balconies and a sculptural staircase give the building a contemporary character while respecting its roots. Fully gas-free and powered by solar panels, it meets BENG standards, achieves A++++ energy and BREEAM-NL Outstanding design certification. Even construction minimised impact with an all-electric site.

Reuse at the Core

The design celebrates reuse. The original structure was stripped to its frame, cutting CO₂ emissions by 75% compared to fully new build. The project also reuses glass bricks and restores the monumental natural stone stairs and wooden handrails, preserving the building’s heritage. The existing load-bearing capacity allowed for an extra floor, densifying the building without material-intensive interventions— a clear example of sustainable transformation.

Spaces that Inspire

The south façade steps back, creating balconies that offer outdoor space and natural shading. Wooden louvers on the east and west façades further reduce solar heat gain, a low-tech solution that reduces the need for mechanical cooling. A biobased façade adds warmth, while a central void floods the interior with daylight, highlighting the main entrance and opening the building to collaboration. On the ground floor, a double-height makerspace provides flexible work and production space, while adjacent indoor bicycle parking encourages sustainable mobility for the tennants and visitors.

A Collective Heart

At its core, Ferro Offices hosts a shared space for interaction: a public plinth with a coffee and lunch bar, a grandstand staircase, and sculptural stairs connecting all floors. Here, maritime makers gather, exchange ideas, and advance maritime innovation.