The Rijnhaven area in Rotterdam is exceptionally suitable to introduce an urbanism that addresses climate change, climate adaptation and the ever-increasing need for more housing in the region.
– Willem van Genugten

Blueroom and Urban Crossovers have created a conceptual proposal for reactivating the Rijnhaven port area in Rotterdam, Netherlands, that would use innovative approaches to tackle the environmental and climate challenges.

The Rotterdam Next Level! development is designed to be attractive and accessible for all, but also to be a unique urban typology that is CO2 and energy neutral, eliminates waste, increases biodiversity and builds a strong community.

Buildings would be constructed entirely from prefabricated elements to minimise construction time, while floating elements would help to vary programming and make the most of the space available.

Community diversity and strength will be partly fostered through the construction of residential units of different styles and across a range of market segments, from floating creative communities to houses with gardens to apartments and penthouses in supertall high-rises.

The mixed-use area would also feature hotels, restaurants and cafés, offices, makerspaces and green public spaces, as well as be home to a number of international institutions.

Green open spaces will provide places for people to gather and relax, with additional green programming that includes urban vegetable and fruit farming, a floating park and a park promenade linking to the existing pedestrian routes.

Explaining the proposed location and describing the potential of the project, Blueroom founder Willem van Genugten said: "The Rijnhaven area in Rotterdam is exceptionally suitable to introduce an urbanism that addresses climate change, climate adaptation and the ever-increasing need for more housing in the region."