Lloyd Yard: 136 energy-neutral homes in the historic port area of ​​Rotterdam

To emphasize the port history of the Lloydkwartier, the completed buildings are robust and unpolished. The eye-catching feature of the building, in addition to a lush courtyard garden, is the public "Maasvenster" with a swing, which offers a phenomenal view of the Maas River and is accessible to all residents. Lloyd Yard was developed for KondorWessels Vastgoed and consists of homes, ten self-build plots, a restaurant, indoor bicycle parking, and an underground parking garage with car sharing.

Ode to Rotterdam's Port History

At Rotterdam's Lloyd Pier, ships once moored, sailors unloaded their wares, and ships departed for the Dutch East Indies. The streetscape of this historic port area was dominated by large sheds and warehouses. By 2024, this area will have been transformed into a vibrant residential and commercial area with accessible quays, restaurants, the Shipping and Transport College, ample green space, and a theater. Much of the bustling new development still recalls the port's past. Paul de Ruiter Architects, WE architects, and the firm ZUS also consciously incorporated the port character into the design of Lloyd Yard: the buildings have a robust appearance thanks to their robust shapes, the lettering on the roof, the large gates, and natural materials like steel and stone. "The homes themselves are mostly double-height with large windows and generous outdoor spaces, which also complements the robust design," says Erik de Vries of WE architects.

The foundations of the former warehouses are visible in Lloyd Yard's lush, public courtyard. From this garden, a steel walkway leads to the second floor, where a window several meters high – the Maas window – has been created. This window offers every apartment a view of the Maas River and allows sunlight to flood the courtyard. Residents and visitors can enjoy a giant swing and a phenomenal view of the Maas River.

Boosting biodiversity in a stone environment

In designing Lloyd Yard, the architects explicitly considered the quality of life for residents and the environment. Joan Almekinders of the ZUS agency: “With the generous gate leading to a lush courtyard, we show everyone that even in the city, you can work together with nature. Greenery doesn't have to be raked or perfect; it should attract as many insects and other animals as possible.” In addition to abundant greenery on the roofs, in the courtyard, and along the facades, nesting boxes have also been installed. All these elements contribute to the biodiversity of this former industrial area, but also to the pleasant living environment. “The multifunctional roofs offer space for plants, solar panels, and the collection and reuse of rainwater. The shared roof terrace with a greenhouse and vegetable garden also offers residents the opportunity to gather and participate in communal activities,” says Martijn van Gameren of Paul de Ruiter Architects.

Future-proof living

Besides the abundance of greenery, Lloyd Yard's sustainable, future-proof character is also enhanced by the fact that all 136 homes sold – townhouses, apartments, penthouses, and maisonettes ranging from 60 m² to 170 m² – are energy-neutral. Furthermore, all roof water is retained and buffered until the gardens actually need it, ensuring zero water loss. "We felt it was important to have a diverse mix of residents with spacious outdoor spaces. The Maas window and the adventurous courtyard garden allow every resident to enjoy the sun, tranquility, fresh air, and views. Lloyd Yard sets the tone for the future," says developer Silvie Bruijning.

Read more about Lloyd Yard here.