Erasmus University College

This project involves the restoration, renovation and re-design of the former City Library of Rotterdam for the Erasmus University College. The architectural style of the existing 5500 m2 building is a combination of a free interpretation of the Amsterdam School with special expressionist detailing of the facades and the functional structure of the former book depository.

In this design for the Erasmus University College the original building as well as the qualities of the original interior have been restored to their original glory. The exceptional beauty of this building is revealed and restored, with its generous decorations, coffered ceilings, wood panelling, natural stone elements, sculptures and stained glass that had all been fully concealed behind gypsum board walls and lowered ceilings for decades. The building boasts one of the first reinforced concrete structures in The Netherlands, which is fully intact and integrated into the new educational building. In addition to restoration works, suitable, but decidedly contemporary elements are added to make this a university building that meets the design brief and contemporary standards.

The core of the building has an elegant atrium with glass walls, and glass elevators, to allow as much daylight as possible to penetrate the building. A fully glazed new top floor is added within the existing envelope, for additional workspaces and offices. The building is equipped with a new and sustainable installations in full compliance with the stringent requirement for education faculties.