In the Bloemhof district of Rotterdam, a remarkable transformation project has been realised in which heritage, sustainability, and contemporary living come together seamlessly. Within an existing urban block, a former school building has been redeveloped into ten homes. While the character of the historic school has been carefully preserved, its comfort, energy performance, and technical systems have been fully upgraded to meet contemporary standards.
This particular residence stands out through the inventive combination of two former classrooms arranged across two levels. Each space has been given its own distinct character. The ground floor accommodates a generous living area with kitchen, utility room, dining room, and lounge. A double-height void forms the spatial heart of the home, strengthening the relationship between the different levels. The first floor has a more private character and contains four bedrooms and workspaces, two bathrooms, building services, and storage areas. In the principal bedroom, the original ceiling height has been preserved, creating a welcoming sense of openness upon entry. The sleeping area itself is positioned beneath the mezzanine, resulting in a more intimate and sheltered atmosphere.
Materiality plays a central role in the interior concept. A terrazzo floor provides a calm and unifying foundation throughout the home. Its warm white tone reflects daylight deep into the interior, while subtle marble aggregates create a refined texture that harmonises with the oak elements. Combined with underfloor heating, the floor contributes to both physical and visual comfort. On the upper levels, marmoleum incorporating natural cocoa husks has been used—a sustainable and circular flooring material with a warm appearance.
A distinctive quality within the urban setting is the generous outdoor space. The apartment features a terrace of approximately 30 m², directly connected to a carefully designed communal courtyard garden. This shared green space not only enhances the quality of living but also strengthens the collective character of the development.
The home also achieves high sustainability standards. The apartment is entirely gas-free, well insulated, and equipped with a heat pump and solar panels. Underfloor heating has been installed on the ground floor and in the bathrooms, while the remaining rooms are heated by radiators. With an A++ energy label, the residence combines low energy consumption with a high level of comfort throughout the year.
