Transformation of C93

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Transforming a former bank on Rotterdam's Coolsingel

2138 C93 Birdeye Render Paul de Ruiter Architects

2138 C93 Streetview Render Paul de Ruiter Architects

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Coolsingel 93, the 23,000 m² monumental former bank building in the heart of Rotterdam, is undergoing a major renovation and transformation. After the transformation, the tower will be 25 meters taller, and its distinctive postmodernist ‘eyes’ at a height of 100 meters will offer views over the city. The office building, spanning an impressive 30,000 m², will meet the highest sustainability standards, making it one of the first large-scale office buildings in the city to be Paris Proof.

Theme:

Offices, Natuurinclusief, WELL Building Standard, Sunlight Usage, BREEAM, Paris Proof

The low-rise section of Coolsingel 93, dating from 1957, was originally designed by architect A.A. van Nieuwenhuijzen as the Bank for Trade and Shipping. In 1993, it underwent a transformation when architect R. van Erk expanded the building significantly with a postmodernist office tower. In the meantime, the building complex has gained monumental status. Now, Paul de Ruiter Architects is adding a third architectural layer by building 25 meters higher on the existing foundation and making the entire building more sustainable so that it meets strict future requirements while preserving historical elements and original architectural features. The extension was made possible by the removal of the tower’s outdated façade, which consisted of 4 cm thick slabs of pink Brazilian granite that were no longer energy-efficient or technically viable. The weight reduction from this removal enabled the extension on top of the tower. The granite will not go to waste—it will be crushed and processed into new, lighter panels that will be used as cladding for a well-insulated façade. The rest of the granite façade will be repurposed in the interior. Additionally, as much existing material as possible will be reused during construction.

One of the main objectives is to make Coolsingel 93 ‘Paris Proof,’ ensuring it meets strict sustainability standards that drastically reduce CO2 emissions. The insulated façade, special insulation glass, solar panels, and energy-efficient installations will ensure that the building consumes less than 70 kilowatt-hours of energy per square meter. This means that Coolsingel 93 will be almost energy-neutral in operation.

Paul de Ruiter: "How a building looks is important. But just as important is how people feel inside it. Plenty of daylight, lots of greenery, and healthy air ensure that people enjoy being there. That is also why we are carrying out this major renovation—to allow daylight to once again enter the existing atrium." Originally, Coolsingel 93 was designed for a single tenant. After the renovation, it will be suitable for multiple tenants. Moreover, all Rotterdammers will be welcome, as the ground floor will feature meeting spaces for both building users and passersby.