The Rotterdamsebaan

Sustainable Design

The Rotterdamsebaan is a prime example of sustainable infrastructure in the Netherlands. The architects considered the project's sustainability and minimizing environmental disruption in all design choices. For example, special concrete gutters in the verge absorb noise, directing it upwards instead of sideways. In the Victory Boogie Woogie Tunnel, particulate matter from cars is captured at the tunnel entrances, resulting in approximately 50 percent less particulate matter emissions. The service building runs entirely on self-generated energy from solar panels on the building's sloping roof. These solar panels also function as a light filter, preventing drivers from being blinded by sunlight when entering or exiting the tunnel.

Nature-Inclusive Route

In the design of the Rotterdamsebaan, integration into the landscape was paramount. By lowering and undergrounding the vast majority of the route, the existing greenery overlying the road remained intact. Moreover, a new park, Molenvlietpark, could be added to the area. Pedestrians can explore rolling landscapes with meadows, flower fields, and water features along nature-friendly banks via footpaths. The service building above the tunnel entrance is integrated into the landscape with green facades, making traffic virtually invisible from the park. This addition of nature, with walking paths, picnic areas, and (natural) play areas, is a green asset to the urban landscape and its biodiversity.

Bridge

The new pedestrian bridge connecting both sides of the Rotterdamsebaan creates a new entrance to the Drievliet family park. The bridge has a sleek, streamlined aluminum exterior, blending in with the surrounding color, and a warm, natural interior with a deck of sustainable wood. In the middle of the bridge, the balustrade is raised, muffling the road noise and creating a comfortable, enclosed feeling. Where the bridge crosses the green landscape, the balustrade is lowered to provide a beautiful view of the surroundings.

Streamlined Route

In the design, Benthem Crouwel Architects and Paul de Ruiter Architects have combined the perspectives of motorists and pedestrians in an exciting contrast between form and material. Motorists will experience the Rotterdamsebaan as a clear, distinct route with a unique and consistent design. The edge of the sunken section is characterised by its characteristic railing of wing-shaped slats, while the streamlined roadway radiates tranquility through the continuous white curved walls that reflect the linear lighting.