The design transforms the Ferro office in a collective building that, with the reuse of the existing shell, a largely biobased facade, energy label A+++ and solar panels on the roof, does justice to the sustainability ambitions of the intended real estate developments in the area.

This first new construction project will be the showcase for M4H Rotterdam (Merwe-Vierhavens), which together with RDM Rotterdam in Heijplaat forms the Rotterdam Makers District. Here the municipality of Rotterdam and Port of Rotterdam are jointly working on an entirely new area concept, which will soon combine housing, education and innovative manufacturing. The Ferro office will be place for the new generation of (maritime) manufacturing companies within the themes of energy transition, mobility and circularity.

Sustainable building
The building is a redevelopment of the former Ferro office built in 1969. Reuse of the shell is central to its design. By using the carrying capacity of the shell, an extra floor was added to the existing volume. The facade on the south side was set back to create outdoor space and naturally regulate the incidence of daylight and sunlight. With the wooden facade and vegetation on the balconies, the building offers a warm contrast to its industrial surroundings.

Inspiring work environment
A spacious collective area forms the heart of the multi-tenant work landscape that encourages encounters. Opening the building from the inside creates a void that brings daylight deep into the building and accentuates the entrance. Here, a sculptural staircase connects the flexible office floors. The public plinth provides space for programming with a wooden grandstand staircase and coffee & lunch bar.

Circular urban development
It is no coincidence that for the design of the Ferro office, cooperation was sought with the architectural firm based in the nearby Keilepand. GROUP A is heavily involved in the area development of M4H Makers District, has extensive knowledge in making historic buildings sustainable and plays an active connecting role in the area. As part of the Keilecollectief, GROUP A addresses spatial issues related to the development of M4H in exhibitions and debates.

Realization
The building will be built according to BENG standards (Nearly Energy Neutral Buildings), BREEAM-NL-outstanding and delivered gas-free. And with an 'all electric' construction site, emissions will also be minimized during construction. Dura Vermeer Heyma is responsible for the realization of the design. The Ferro office is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.