RCD Magazine #11

ROTTERDAM BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR & FOUNDER OF TRANSITIONHERO

TIME NEVER STANDS STILL IN RCD

The summer months of 2023 have flown by, and now many of us are once more dusting off those work laptops, tablets and phones. Despite summer supposedly being a slow season, our buzzing RCD is always bursting with inspiring stories. Rotterdam is a forward-thinking city, where the motto is ‘less talk, more action’. That was precisely the impetus for erecting the new four- metre tall statue Moments Contained on the station square in RCD. The sense of identification and rapport people feel for this lady in Nikes has sparked off all kinds of new connections and conversations. And what could be more wonderful than gathering to share our stories?

Dazzling on this issue’s cover is Rotterdam’s ‘Emerging Talent’ Businesswoman of the Year, Petra Beris. With her company, TransitionHERO, she is on a mission to transform polluting industries through the power of green technologies.

The future she envisions can get us all thinking about the choices we need to make for our cherished planet. Petra also aspires to be an inspiring role model for women. An ambition we’re sure she’ll achieve!

Also in these pages is Mik Hartman and Rubayet Akbar’s story about their plans to make the fashion industry more sustainable. We’ve got an update on the redesign of Hofplein, and an eye-opening look at Diana Al-Halabi’s critically creative vision. And be sure to check out Maaskant Park (in the Groot Handelsgebouw) – and grab a Lebkov coffee while you’re there.

We hope you’ll enjoy reading this issue!

Céline Boute & Romy Lange Editors, RCD Magazine

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LEELA JAMES

25 October @ Bird

R&B singer-songwriter Leela James has conquered countless hearts across the music world, her concerts always a breath of fresh air. Catch her live at Bird for a truly unforgettable musical experience!

THEATER OOSTPOOL: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

22-23 September @ Theater Rotterdam

Athens in the year 1600: a city where sleep is banned and everything centres on maximizing productivity. Fleeing this reality, four young lovers take refuge in the forest, where they fall asleep for the first time and awaken into a world of dreams. Don’t miss this dazzling production of Shakespeare’s classic!

ROTOWN X ROODKAPJE

3 October @ Roodkapje

Cousin Tony’s Brand New Firebird is one of Australia’s favourite indie bands. Their refreshing take on modern-day indie interfaces with Nick Cave, disco and reminiscence of U2, creating an enigmatic mix between cult and mainstream. There’s nothing like seeing them perform live.

VUNZIGE DEUNTJES

22 September @ Annabel

Returning to the port city from Friday 22 September is the Vunzige Deuntjes festival! Round up your squad and come along to our favourite friend Annabel’s for a night of the smoothest hip hop, R&B and dance hall tunes: from singalongs to forgotten gems, with the best, the worst, and everything in between.

HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS™ PART 1 IN CONCERT

15-19 November @ De Doelen

Experience the magic of Harry Potter in Concert during this film showing accompanied by the Rotterdams Philharmonisch Orkest playing live in the concert hall. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows™ Part 1 in Concert is the first part of the series’ epic finale, opening as Harry embarks on his final year at Hogwarts.

ROTTERDAM BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR & FOUNDER OF TRANSITIONHERO

As a toddler, Petra Beris wanted to be something rather different than most little girls when she grew up. A crocodile trainer. Although, she worried: crocodiles were so niche. Her dad had the answer: “Why not be in charge of the zoo? Then you can train all the animals.” To this day, his words are Petra’s motivation. At university she discovered her passion for engineering and knew, after traversing various paths, she also wanted to make a positive difference in the world. That all came together with the launch of TransitionHERO alongside her business partner Stef Clevers, which is now a successful company where she and her team are working hard to make industry greener. Her efforts led colleagues to nominate Petra for Rotterdam Businesswoman of the Year, a title she won, in the category ‘Emerging Talent’, this summer.

PETRA, HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN YOUR CAREER?

“As a student in Eindhoven studying chemical engineering, I discovered that engineering was a good fit. My first job was in the innovation department at Allseas Group. Those international projects were amazing, but they were not aimed at a sustainable market and I really wanted to make a positive difference in the world. After that I became a project manager at Tebodin, but it didn’t give me the creative freedom I was after as an engineer. To learn how to make that positive change, I went to Cambridge to study Sustainable Business.”

“The demand to help industry transition is huge, and the way we are thatdoing is proving effective.”

HOW DID TRANSITIONHERO GET STARTED?

“I had become increasingly interested in circular technologies, that can be the start of an industry fuelled by waste and biobased resources, rather than fossil resources. What the processes of the future are and how to achieve them at scale. That eventually led to Stef, one of my former colleagues at Tebodin, and I launching TransitionHERO, after being encouraged to go for it by a first potential investor. That was four and a half years ago. We have gone on growing over all that time and now employ 22 people, have 38 clients globally and work exclusively on projects to green industry.”

HOW DID YOU MANAGE TO GO FROM STARTUP TO INTERNATIONAL COMPANY IN UNDER FIVE YEARS?

“Demand to help industry transition is huge, and the way we are doing that is proving effective. We start with the business case and then design the technology from there. It’s not just about a green mission or PR strategy, but about solutions that are intrinsically good. We also analyse the risks of each project and how they can be managed (also by others including us). That’s our speciality. And because our Dutch clients have been satisfied with our work, that got the ball rolling outside the Netherlands. Many new potential clients are referred to us by other satisfied clients, so that is also a great compliment.”

LOOKING AT RCD, AND BASED ON YOUR EXPERTISE, WHAT DO YOU THINK COULD BE IMPROVED?

“All of our projects, including for municipalities, are at an industrial scale. It’s important to keep re-evaluating the energy transition. Rotterdam already has a waste heat supply coming from the port. What we want is an urban situation people can live in. Trees and vegetation are massively important and a very simple solution for keeping the city cool. Right now, we are working with the Franciscus hospital to look at sustainable steps they can take.”

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR TRANSITIONHERO? WHERE DO YOU SEE OPPORTUNITIES?

“Everything always needs to be smarter and faster, so our company will be growing, for sure. To be prepared for that, we are working on developing our own software. This will help us better assess all the different options, and so draft better businesses cases for the development of green technologies as well as understand what needs to be prioritized and is feasible financially. On the other

side, we are also working on developing green technologies ourselves and looking at where there’s a need for that in the market. The Dutch nitrogen issue is affecting the industry too, because combustion processes involve nitrogen. We are engineering and testing a technology in a factory in Delfzijl for nitrogen capture and reuse as a feedstock for synthetic fertilizer. Synthetic fertilizers make up seven per cent of carbon emissions, due to the methane in natural gas. If you can make this from a circular production cycle, that kills two birds with one stone. Fewer emissions and nitrogen as resource: that’s a hopeful prospect.”

THIS SUMMER, YOU WERE VOTED ONE OF ROTTERDAM’S BUSINESSWOMEN OF THE YEAR. CONGRATULATIONS!

“It was an absolutely brilliant experience and I feel incredibly honoured and valued by the support and faith this community gave me throughout the process. I never expected something like this. Even just that a colleague submitted my name and the enthusiasm everyone had to go for this competition was a massive honour.”

DO YOU FEEL A RESPONSIBILITY NOW TO BE A ROLE MODEL FOR OTHER WOMEN?

“I would like to be – it’s definitely an ambition. It also fits with the message I want to send and is very important to me. Fourteen per cent of the engineering world is women. That is very little. And when it comes to starting a business, I think women tend to doubt their capabilities and pass up opportunities because of it. That’s not true of everyone, obviously, but the industry transition is a huge challenge that needs teamwork, diversity, entrepreneurship and engineering. More women are needed here to lead and make this happen. People invariably grow if you let them do what they excel at, giving them a little push and the confidence if they need it.”

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH READERS OF RCD MAGAZINE?

“There are a lot of sustainable steps that are easy to implement but may take some getting used to. If everyone does a little bit, that helps, too. Even just planting more plants and trees. Also, think about your waste: don’t buy more than you’ll eat and buy sustainable clothing instead of more and cheap clothes. We need big solutions, but there are also many different and very important small steps we can take. We really need everyone to be in this together.”

Where game changers meet change makers

Hofplein is set to get a complete overhaul in the coming years. Plans envision a green, urban square offering ample space to cycle and stroll, with of course the fountain at the centre of it all amid the greenery. This revitalization of Hofplein is part of wider plans to green Rotterdam, both to enable climate adaptation and create more appealing residential areas.

Greener and cooler, thanks to trees

With more than 150 trees of all sizes, the square will be a good deal leafier as well as shadier. The trees are currently growing in the municipal nursery (Rotterdamse Stadskwekerij) and in private nurseries awaiting their new digs on Hofplein. Alongside trees, the square’s green beds will be filled with biodiversity-boosting plants.

Earlier, the City conducted a study to assess how the square’s new design will impact urban heat stress. This found that the once-busy traffic intersection will become a place to stay cool. Over a period of years, the average feelslike temperature should drop more than 7 °C, thus helping to alleviate heat stress in the city centre.

Water storage

A large underground water storage will be installed at one edge of the square with the capacity to keep up to 1,200 m3 of water in reserve at times of heavy rainfall. This will

minimize flooding at the street level. Stored precipitation can subsequently be used to water the trees and other vegetation during dry spells.

Better balance between all road users

The tram tracks will remain and there will be dedicated two-lane paths for cyclists, whilst in- and outbound motor vehicle traffic will skirt the sides of the square. It will have entries/exits on Coolsingel, Pompenburg, Schiekade and Weena for emergency services and local traffic.

Consultations with businesses and residents

In preparing its plans for Hofplein, the City held extensive consultations with local business owners and residents. This final design is the result. Most inhabitants are very positive about the mix of vegetation, water, provisions for different modes of traffic and more space for pedestrians and bicyclists. The final design also caters for wishes to keep the city centre accessible by car for businesses/logistics, offices and residents.

From plan to execution

Hofplein’s new design has now been finalized and adopted by Rotterdam’s municipal executive. A tender of the execution for the new Hofplein design will be issued before the year is out so work can start in early 2025.

www.rotterdam.nl/hofplein

HOFPLEIN DESIGN FINALIZED R C D M A G A Z I N E ARTIST IMPRESSIONS Juurlink [+] Geluk

TAKING THE STAGE

The bronze statue of a young black woman in a T-shirt, jogging bottoms and Nike Air Max trainers is the talk of the town in RCD. Titled Moments Contained, the work represents the feeling of being ‘othered’. The artist, Thomas J. Price, hopes it will evoke a sense of understanding, connection and empathy among all those who see it. We asked and you told us what emotions the statue stirs in you.

SEMIE VLEGHERT (54)

“I work in the WTC Rotterdam, so I saw this amazing statue as I walked out of the station. The statue is very big and I feel even smaller standing next to it. I don’t know the reason for putting it up in Rotterdam, but it looks brilliant here and loads of people will see it on leaving Centraal Station. I’m going to go take a picture of it in a minute.”

JET HESEN (60)

“I was on my way to Scheveningen and got off at Rotterdam Centraal specifically to see the statue. I’ve been closely following the whole story about it. She looks very self-possessed and proud, standing there. It really intrigues me. Partly because my husband is a black man. Our kids have a mixed cultural heritage, so that’s why this statue particularly appeals to me.”

TIRZA TAIHUTTU (40)

“At first I wasn’t sure what to make of it, I guess because statues tend to be of heroes and such and this is just an ordinary person. But that also makes it special in a way. I immediately thought it was about multiculturalism as that’s a big thing in Rotterdam. I also think her pose is a good reflection of Rotterdam, as people here are always saying to just ‘act normal’.”

LAROUSSII HAGUI (57)

“The statue conveys a feeling of tolerance, of not being separate; it says a lot of positive things. To me, for example, it’s about freedom for everyone. I would say the statue itself embodies love for one another.”

PATRICIA BOONEMAN (54) & EP BOONEMAN (82)

“We think the statue is wonderfully representative of Rotterdam. It is very powerful. And it is also nice that it’s not aimed at the Instagram-worthy stereotypes. It is a refreshing image. And she fits in well here. To me, she’s a second symbol of Rotterdam. She reflects the city’s diversity.”

R. VAN COOTEN (54)

“It’s a beautiful statue. I am from South America originally, but no one is as dark as the statue. Rotterdam is a great place for this artwork. I come here for everything – to run errands, go shopping and go out. To me, this statue represents equality; that you and I are the same. We are all living creatures of flesh and blood in the end, and that makes us all equals.”

ISMAIL EL YAHYAOUI (21)

“You see it as soon as you come out of the station. It represents lots of people and there is a lot of respect for that. I think this statue could help with the idea of body positivity and individual differences. The message I think it sends is that it doesn’t matter what you look like and that we are all equal.”

LUCIE SIROKA (54)

“It sends a great message, I think. I see it as being about a future for young women, especially women from other backgrounds. She really represents the future. Rotterdam is a very international city and it fits that image. I am from the Czech Republic myself, and to me this statue stands for equal opportunities for women.”

This year, Jouke Baaima and Michael Berendsen are celebrating Corporate Housing Factory’s tenth anniversary. The company helps relocating employees with their temporary housing needs, and since they founded it ten years ago, they have grown into a veritable powerhouse. How do they look back on that period, and what does the future hold for their company?

LOOKING BACK OVER THE PAST DECADE, WHAT ARE SOME MOMENTS THAT STAND OUT?

Jouke: “Building up and growing our team, for sure. We started out with six people and since then have grown to a workforce of thirty and three different divisions. That’s a testament to their hard work and innovation. It’s just amazing to be able to share this adventure with other people and to scale this mountain together.” Michael: “Absolutely. But also the maturity we’ve achieved in this phase is pretty amazing. Whereas in the early days we were really pioneers, now we’ve seemed to reach seniority in the eyes of the market and get requests from major corporations and market

players. That’s a compliment for our entire team.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COMPANY CULTURE?

Jouke: “One of our company’s core values is that we are professional, yet personal. When you find that balance, it’s an incredible combination.” Michael: “Definitely, and people recognize that, too. I hope, and I honestly think, that our clients see us as a welloiled organization. Everything works. People see our values and family-like culture reflected in everything we do and they really value that.” Jouke: “We also try to keep pace with changes and be forward-looking. That’s not to say we want to be the coolest kid on the

block. We just want to find our fit in the market based on the standards and values that matter to us.”

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE COMING YEARS? EXPANSION?

MORE CITIES?

Michael: “Haha, spot on. We can’t just sit around. So, yes, we’ll definitely be adding a new city and adding things in cities where we operate already. Besides that, we are also looking at new markets and beyond the Netherlands, because clients often ask if we can help them out in other countries. And, of course, we are rolling out and expanding our new divisions, including Corporate Housing Living, our long stay brand. These are all exciting developments.” Corporate Housing Factory www.corporatehousingfactory.com 088 116 9500

“IT’S AMAZING TO SHARE THIS ADVENTURE WITH OUR TEAM”

Jouke Baaima & Michael Berendsen

COFFEE BREAK

WITH GRARDIE AKKERHUIS

The delectable scents of fresh bread and other bakery delights come wafting to greet you the moment you step outside Central Station. The source? It can only be one place: Lebkov! Inside, a friendly team are ready and waiting to fix sandwiches, juice and fresh-brewed coffee just the way you like. At the helm of this successful business since 2003 is Grardie Akkerhuis, who opened Lebkov on the corner of the Groot Handelsgebouw in 2007. Grardie is proud of how Lebkov has expanded since then and confident of its future growth. Growing a business is like stringing beads, he says: take a careful approach and you’re sure to get a brilliant result.

HOW DID LEBKOV START OUT?

“Lebkov was originally founded by five entrepreneurs, including two friends of mine, in 2002. I was doing restaurant marketing at Heineken back then and they often asked my advice, on account of my long-time sector experience. So I was involved in that way from the start. In January 2003 I went out to eat with one of the owners and learned that Lebkov was up for sale. Almost instantly

I knew I wanted to take the leap to buy Lebkov and go into business myself. From there on I shaped it the way I wanted.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE LEBKOV, AS YOU CONCEIVED IT?

“One of the biggest decisions was to go for quality and make everything ourselves – the bread recipes, the freshly squeezed juices, the tuna salad and hummus from scratch and

making all our own baked goods. And we use organic products. It’s important to know what’s in your food. Every location has its own kitchen, so that makes working at Lebkov quite varied. Another focus is on brewing delicious coffee. Consistently offering good coffee at seven different locations is a challenge for sure, but I won’t give in to fully automatic. This is something the whole Lebkov team are making sure we can always offer.”

MR LEBKOV IS A MADE-UP CHARACTER, BUT WHERE DID HE COME FROM?

“The first café was inspired by a deli in New York City. So, the story goes that Mr Lebkov immigrated from Moscow to New York. To make ends meet, he started a street stall selling coffee and quality sandwiches. Over time that grew, he bought his own premises and business was so good that he expanded to places like the Netherlands. Now, Mr Lebkov is our marketing and communication sto -

ryteller. Our message has also changed over time, to ‘healthier food, better coffee’. Meaning, Lebkov’s offering has shifted to focus on better, more sustainable and healthier.”

YOU HAVE REALLY DOUBLED DOWN ON SUSTAINABILITY, THE NEW MINI EV BEING ONE EXAMPLE. WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT TO YOU?

“Officially, our delivery cart is an electrically-powered bicycle. This innovation is really instrumental to the message we want to send. That said, we also still deliver by car and obviously not all the scooters operated by Uber or Thuisbezorgd are electric. Our own carts are a way to start moving in the right direction. With all the other developments we’ve got going on, we had to start somewhere.”

AFTER ALL THESE YEARS OF GROWING SUCCESS, WHAT’S YOUR ROLE AT LEBKOV THESE DAYS?

“All the Lebkov branches are my office. I’m mainly a manager and coach for those branch managers, which means I have a measure of control, making sure everything is running the way we like it. Those managers can also come to me with queries about supplies, staffing or other issues. Beyond that, I’m responsible for the strategic side of course, the five-year planning and so forth, checking out new locations and a bit of PR and communication.”

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH READERS OF RCD MAGAZINE?

“I have tremendous faith in the Central District. So much has been fermenting here over the past decade and there’s so much more to come. I’m also incredibly proud of how long we’ve been based in the Groot Handelsgebouw. To me, it’s an icon of Rotterdam. I used to pass by it on the tram to visit my nan, and now I have my own business here. That’s just amazing.”

WTC ROTTERDAM A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES

WTC Rotterdam is located in the bustling heart of Rotterdam. The (inter)national business community comes together here and you will find various shops and high-quality facilities including Vondelgym, Postillion hotel & convention centre, Brasserie Jules (brother of the famous Brasserie Pierre) and the brand new company restaurant The Hub. We rent high-quality office spaces on the Coolsingel, Meent and in the iconic green tower directly at the Koopgoot.

READY TO MEET YOUR NEW OFFICE?

We offer modern offices starting from 250m2 in a vibrant international environment. Work in an historic building or rent a renovated office with views of the city. WTC Rotterdam leases to companies in various sectors and offers a wide range of services.

“WTC Rotterdam’s vision of sustainability in the future fits ours seamlessly”

“WTC Rotterdam’s strong character and corporate identity is very attractive, and certainly so in the financial world”

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Eduard Voorn is a freelance journalist with a focus on economics, and first and foremost a Rotterdammer. He lives in the villagey outskirts of Rotterdam Central District, eats his pizza at BIRD, raises a pint at Biergarten or Weena, gets his caffeine fix at Lebkov, catches the latest flicks in Pathé Schouwburgplein and sees Scapino at Theater Rotterdam. His kids were born in the nowfamous Mecanoo architectural firm’s first project on Kruisplein.

THE YOUNG LADY IN BLACK IS A TRUE CONNECTING ELEMENT

The black bronze statue by English artist Thomas J. Price is proving to be a wonderful connector. Since the unveiling of Moments Contained on 2 July this year, she has been surrounded by people. People talking together. People leaning up against her taking selfies. And even, at the unveiling, some people shedding tears. The young black woman stands proud, hands fisted in her pockets, nonchalantly gazing into the city from the station square. In the words of Thomas* himself, “Moments Contained refers to a moment, an opportunity for understanding, connection and empathy.”

When my children and I still lived on Kruisplein in the heart of RCD, we had no connecting element such as this statue. Instead, we had fountains on the square between the Doelen and Theater Rotterdam where I took my kids in summer. People from the neighbourhood would hang around the edges and chitchat while our kids splashed around in the water. When the building works began, the ‘splash pools’ went, and so did we. The tramps and addicts had been bad enough, and now there was no neighbourhood left to speak of.

The city council’s ambition is intensification of central Rotterdam, mainly with high-rise buildings – read: hundreds upon hundreds of apartments. If I had young kids, would I want to live there now? Doubtful. There is too much concrete for me. Too little vegetation and water. Despite best efforts, motor vehicle traffic is still a noisy nuisance. That already made playing outdoors a challenge, but in the summers, which keep getting hotter, it has become unbearable.

Technologically, setting our sights as high as 250 metres is no problem these days, but a city isn’t a city until there is life on the ground. With a street-level landscape affording connection, empathy, safety; in short, the qualities embodied by this young woman. Which is why I am doubtful. There is no safe environment into which I’d feel comfortable entrusting my children, nor are there amenities like fountains and parks. Fortunately, RCD is being peopled by young urbanites. It is home to several leading architectural firms – with urban planners – that are nationally and internationally renowned. May they get to work in the spirit of Price and design an inclusive RCD – one in which young families will want to raise their children. After all, this district deserves to be lived in.

*de Kunstbode, February 2023

“CURAÇAO’S HIGHLY DEVELOPED FINANCIAL SECTOR MAKES IT A WONDERFUL BASE OF OPERATIONS”

PYGG is a Curaçao-based boutique investment firm specializing in investment banking, wealth management and corporate services, catering to both private and corporate clients. Co-founder Frank Lammers and Corporate & Fund Services Director Nacha de Jesus told us what makes Curaçao the ideal location for operating their business, investing and enjoying life.

ADVENTURE

Co-founder Frank Lammers first got acquainted with Curaçao during a business trip in 2001. “Straight off, I thought to myself: wow, this is a place I’d love to return to one day.” Frank was working as a manager at Fortis Bank at the time, but when an opportunity arose to become CEO of MeesPierson on Curaçao in 2006, he didn’t need to think twice. From there, he went on to several different technical, commercial and leadership roles until finally deciding to start for himself in 2019. “An old acquaintance rang proposing to set up a family office here in Willemstad. I’d been itching to start something for a while, so that grabbed my fancy straight away.”

CORPORATE AND PRIVATE CLIENTÈLE

By putting words into action, PYGG was established in 2019 as ‘one-stop-shop’ helping private and corporate clients with reaching their financial goals. The name of ‘PYGG’ alludes to the orange clay used in medieval times to produce earthenware plates and pots in which valuables were kept. Pronounced identically to the English

word ‘pig’, this led to demand for porcine-shaped vessels. Better known as piggy banks. “The piggy bank symbolizes financial literacy which links nicely with the services PYGG offers”, Frank continues. “From setting up and listing funds on the Dutch Caribbean Securities Exchange (DCSX) and raising capital, to managing investment portfolios for wealth management clients.”

STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD

PYGG is headquartered in Willemstad, where Nacha de Jesus joined as the firm’s new Corporate & Fund Services director this January. Though born and raised on Curaçao, she moved to the Netherlands to do a degree in tax law and wound up staying for twenty years. She returned to Curaçao 13 years ago. “Curaçao is a good location to operate from as there’s a highly developed financial sector”, Nacha says. “Geographically, it’s also a good base of operations for doing business with South America, Europe (through the link with the Netherlands) and the United States.” Frank likewise sees all kinds of advantages to being based on Curaçao: “We stand out from the crowd. And the clients we work with from around the globe, often already have a link with Curaçao or the wider Dutch Caribbean”.

GROWING DEMAND FOR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES ON CURAÇAO

Rising interest rates and high real estate prices in other markets such as in the Netherlands help to fuel interest in island real estate. “We see growth in demand for investments in or from Curaçao”, Nacha observes, “for residential and commercial real estate, but also from companies for expansion in to the Caribbean and South America. Fiscal incentives to attract startups in combination with a high quality of life, make Curaçao an attractive location for young professionals & entrepreneurs as well as for investors looking for alternative investments.”

DIVERSE SPECTRUM OF SERVICES

With its diverse range of services, PYGG differentiates. Frank: “We help people with a whole spectrum of financial goals, including fund managers looking to setup and run an investment fund at affordable costs, entrepreneurs looking for a foothold in the region, company’s looking to list on a recognized alternative stock exchange, and affluent or wealthy families looking for help with management of their assets.”The firm specializes in administrative matters and local requirements for property and business owners too. “Not many firms combine so many areas of expertise under one roof”, Nacha says. “That allows us to rapidly shift gears and keep in touch with our clients personally.”

OFFICE BUILDING OF THE FUTURE W70

UNIQUE SPACES

For years, W70 served as the headquarters of a succession of companies. After Shell moved out, building manager a.s.r. real estate deliberated over what to do with the building over both the short and long term. In the end, they have decided to furnish W70 as a social office space until plans for the new building are finalized.

MORE THAN A PLACE TO WORK

The new concept has been named W70, Brouwer says. “W70 won’t be just any office, but a place where people can get together, whether to work, meet, attend an event or have a coffee.” This chimes perfectly with the current ethos, Sturkenboom points out. “The way we work and live has changed since the Covid pandemic. Now, with hybrid working, offices have to be more than just a place to work. You need a reason to actually come to the building, be that to meet with people or because you have a nice workspace or there is something to experience.”

The ground and first floors will play a central role in the building. “The entrance lobby will have an area for exhibitions or other forms of artistic expression, so we can create an experience element there as well. That will draw people into the building. And then the first floor of W70 will have a café and be a place people can congregate”, Brouwer continues. Another highpoint of the building – figuratively and literally – will be the sky bar on the sixteenth floor, offering a panoramic view of the Rotterdam skyline, city centre and port. “It will be an amazing spot to gather and hold meetings, presentations and other events!”

SOCIAL AND SUSTAINABLE

A vital feature of the refurbished W70 is that it will be a socially-oriented space with a commitment to recycling, upcycling and sustainability. Brouwer: “The building is being renewed, but using the existing interior and materials wherever possible. Moreover, that social and sustainable character will be reflected not just in the interior, but also in the partners we’re working with and things like the coffee that’s served. By sharing their office space, companies reduce their carbon footprint. Instead of having semi-empty floors at certain days in the week, we fully manage the flexible use of office floors, meeting & event spaces, and restaurants. By creating a better experience in buildings, we also create a reason to come to the office. This leads to more social interaction, higher sustainability in use and ultimately a better financial return.”

FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

The building is being repurposed for a temporary period of three years to start. This may be extended, however, depending on how fast plans for the new building take shape. Among those plans is to connect the office block with the multi-storey car park behind it and convert W70 into a mixed-used residential and business premises, with both apartments and office spaces. “But, until then”, says Sturkenboom, “We hope that W70 is a valuable addition to the city. The building will look more attractive and that will have a spillover effect on the area. Though there are no guarantees, we’re confident it will be a success.”

Read more at www.w70.club

The W70 building is ready to be repurposed. While plans for a new building take shape, the premises at Weena 70 will be serving as a flexible office space. But not just any office space! Rick Sturkenboom of a.s.r. real estate and Michiel Brouwer of Re:Invent tell us what’s in store for W70.

Romy Lange & Lysanne Wilkens

PHOTOGRAPHY Studio Bellamie Fotografie

“We have the ambition to turn the former Shell office into a “GOOD ENERGY TANK STATION” and a new hotspot in central Rotterdam. A place where you can go to recharge and meet other people in a positive vibe. The building is from the eighties. Upcycling and sustainability are the future. The interior of W70 brings all these ingredients together with a large dose of playfulness.”

W70 designer Sheryl Leysner

Michiel Brouwer of Re:Invent & Rick Sturkenboom of a.s.r. real estate

Sheryl Leysner

AN URBAN AND ARCHITECTURAL WALK IN ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT THE CITY AS SEEN THROUGH THE EYES

OF SAUDI DELEGATES

VNG International recently partnered with King Saud University in Riyadh to set up a two-week study visit for twenty delegates from Saudi local and provincial governments following an executive master’s programme in urban planning, infrastructure and neighbourhood design. With their expertise on urban architecture and design in Rotterdam, RCD process and project manager Kees van Oorschot gave a presentation together with Barbara van den Broek, Urban Planner at the municipality of Rotterdam, in LaatBloeien. Afterwards Kees guided the group on a walk through Rotterdam Central District to show and tell them about the city’s history and ongoing development.

VNG INTERNATIONAL

VNG International is the International Cooperation Agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (Vereniging Nederlandse Gemeenten). The key focus of the organization is strengthening democratic local government in developing countries and countries in transition.

The Saudi delegation visited the Netherlands to learn more about urban climate, planning, design and beautification and ways of adapting cities to their societal role as places not only to live but also to connect, explore and play. We asked the VNG International team and two Saudi delegates what they think of Rotterdam’s history, what could be implemented in Saudi Arabia and why this study visit is important to them.

AZZA DERBALI & STEFAN HAGEMAN

(project managers at VNG International)

“This is the fifth study visit we have organized with Saudi Arabia, in which we want to showcase how the Netherlands is doing urban design. For example, the regeneration and simultaneous beautification of the heart of the city. Our goal with this programme is to show the Saudi delegates how the municipality is dealing with the urban design process over time and what its solution-based approach looks like. Rotterdam is an interesting example, spanning from industrial to a more creative and tech-based flow. Part of what has been done here is also what they are trying to do in Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. Besides learning from field experts and the academic flavour of this trip, we’re also taking them to TU Delft for interactive peer-to-peer exchange.”

SHAREEF AL MUTARI

“Listening to the presentation, it was very interesting to learn about the struggles and development this city has gone through. Every form of urban planning in Rotterdam has always put a big focus on people, nature and mobility. That is very instructive to see and inspiring as well. It shapes a city where so many things are possible for the people living or just visiting here. Plenty of things could be implemented in Saudi Arabia, such as the various public gardens and the way mobility is structured in a way that keeps the city liveable.”

MOHAMMED ALSAEED

“It was an excellent presentation, and very informative. I think it is a huge achievement how the people here rebuilt their city after the Second World War. It’s something the people of Rotterdam should be proud of. And very impressive that there was such an involved local community that cared about the city and preserved the buildings that could be saved. As someone from a very different environment, I could definitely live here. I’m an urbanist and in my view Rotterdam is a beautiful place that sets a great example. Saudi Arabia is my country and is developing quickly, which is great to see. We are trying to move in a positive direction.”

TUINBUURT VRIJLANDT

Come home to a green oasis just a 15-minute bike ride to central Rotterdam

Popular new neighbourhoods are cropping up all over Rotterdam Zuid. Such as the tasteful 190 thirties-style houses going for sale between Ogierssingel and Molenvliet. All gas-free, sustainably built and wholly in garden city style. Construction started last year and the first homes were completed this summer. Living in Tuinbuurt Vrijlandt means living in a quintessential 21st-century garden suburb near the water. In an area beckoning to you to take a stroll, cycle, play and get together, whether on the local common or at a pond-side bench. The neighbourhood is child-friendly thanks to wide pavements, low-traffic streets and clearly bounded playgrounds.

GREEN, GREENER, GREENEST

The landscape plan is a central element in the neighbourhood’s design. Each street has its own type of flowering shrubs or trees. Organize neighbourhood gatherings in the community glasshouse, head to the nearby Zuiderpark or hop on your bike and be in central Rotterdam in under 15 minutes. Project developer Ballast Nedam Development and the Association for the Protection of Birds (Vogelbescherming) are working together to make Tuinbuurt Vrijlandt as attractive as possible for birds and small mammals. All of the houses have integrated nesting and habitats for birds and bats, and new residents get a complete package of materials to attract birds to their gardens.

The first homes have been completed and occupants will start moving in within a few months. All are gas-free and energy-neutral and so qualify for a mortgage discount. A welcome bonus in these times! At this moment, there are still several houses available for sale.

HAPPY HOMEOWNERS IN TUINBUURT VRIJLANDT

Meet Maurice (age 32) and Merel (35), who purchased a lovely home in Tuinbuurt Vrijlandt. Both work at the Albert Heijn headquarters, Maurice as a supply chain consultant and Merel as a trainer.

“We really wanted to live in Rotterdam, but had basically given up. Until we came across Tuinbuurt Vrijlandt. This property had it all: a garden, garage and lush, green surroundings. Most of all, we’re looking forward to all the space: 100m2 more than we have now! Soon, we’ll be able to sit out in the sun with friends and pop into the city for impromptu drinks.

Sustainability

The sustainable aspect of this neighbourhood is hugely important to us. It’s how we can be prepared for the future. We’re happy to be going off natural gas and generating our own energy. Merel loves blossom trees, and there should be loads flowering in season!”

www.tuinbuurtvrijlandt.nl

TW3 Makelaars

Office: +31 (0) 10 300 71 17

Email: info@tw3.nl

Woonvisie Makelaars

Office: + 31 (0) 10 292 30 00

Email: cas@woonvisiemakelaars.nl

HOME TOURS IN ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT WITH GERWIN SMIT

With a farewell to his native village, young Gerwin Smit set out for life in the big city. It was the right choice: after 42 years in Rotterdam, he can’t imagine any place he would rather grow old. The freedom and the enterprising, creative mindset he calls so characteristic of Rotterdam are precisely why he feels right at home here. Now that he’s enjoying his retirement, however, he also likes to exchange the port city every two months for some Spanish sun.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?

“I grew up in Vreeswijk, in what is now Nieuwegein. I left the village fairly young and ended up studying in Utrecht. After a preparatory course at the conservatory, I transferred to the dance academy, for which I moved to Rotterdam. Dance careers tend to be short, so I combined my dance training with an evening course at the Utrecht School of the Arts. Up until the age of 35 I spent a lot of time on stage as a classical modern dancer. After that, I went to work as a costume and set designer. Now, I am 65 and retired, but still active as a textile artist.”

YOU HAVE LIVED IN ROTTERDAM FOR 42 YEARS. DID YOU FEEL AT HOME HERE STRAIGHT AWAY?

“I was accepted to the dance academies in both Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and could get housing in both cities, but Rotterdam felt like a better fit for me. Even back then – we’re talking 1985 – you had a ton of tourists, expatriates and international students in Amsterdam. It is always crowded. Rotterdam gives you more freedom, more space. Literally and figuratively. My first place in Rotterdam was on Walenburgerweg, not far from here. After spending a half year in Paris and another year and a half in Berlin to dance, I was absolutely set on coming back to Rotterdam.”

IN WHAT WAYS HAVE YOU SEEN ROTTERDAM CHANGE OVER THE YEARS?

“When I first came to live here, there were still a lot of

empty spots. Kop van Zuid didn’t exist yet, it was just a flat, barren expanse with a warehouse here and there and the shuttered Hotel New York. We often held raves and house parties out there. Dotted around the city were old shacks and sheds which were claimed by artists – people can just do that in Rotterdam. Like with the yellow bridge and the Schieblock. You can actually get things off the ground here.”

YOU HAVE LIVED IN THIS HOUSE SINCE 1999. WHAT MAKES THIS A NICE AREA TO LIVE?

“When I came to Rotterdam the very first time to audition for the dance academy, I left the station on the wrong side. When I came to the Singel, I thought: wow, I wouldn’t mind living here. I was always drawn to this area, so when my husband and I decided to buy our own place, this was one of our favourite neighbourhoods to go house-hunting. You’re close to the station and to town. I can walk to the theatre, the concert hall, the Doelen and the cinema. But at the same time I can enjoy the peace and quiet here. For me, that’s ideal.”

AND THEN YOU SPEND HALF THE YEAR IN SPAIN?

“I own a holiday cottage thirty minutes outside Valencia. Every two months I swap locations. Valencia is a wonderful city. It has a vibe similar to Rotterdam, with that sense of freedom, enterprising mindset and open outlook. The transformation of the Turia riverbed into a park is a great example of that.”

GERWIN SMIT

Hobbies: Playing the piano and telepathic communication with animals.

Favourite object at home: There are many things in my home that make me happy. But, if my house was on fire and I could only take one, it would be my dogs and cat.

Favourite spot in Rotterdam: The Kralingse Bos, to go walking with my dog, and the Indonesian restaurant Minang Kabau.

DISCOVER MAASKANT PARK: GROOT HANDELSGEBOUW’S

GREEN OASIS

Experience the urban transformation at Groot Handelsgebouw, where offices, cafes, and retail spaces converge with nature. Blooming Buildings developed Maaskant Park; an urban green oasis seamlessly integrated into the elevated pathway of the building. In line with Groot Handelsgebouw’s commitment to designdriven spaces that empower tenants and influence the city, Maaskant Park flourishes as a year-round spectacle and an inviting environment.

Picture a range of planters filled with colourful yet extremely diverse plants and trees, alternating with inviting seating and play areas. This lush expanse, featuring over 400 plant species, enhances biodiversity in Rotterdam Central District. “It feels like Christmas on a daily basis!” exclaims a Groot Handelsgebouw tenant, describing the delight of discovering new facets of Maaskant Park daily.

Research underscores the myriad benefits of increased vegetation and green infrastructure. Enjoy significantly improved air quality, enhanced water management, a boost in physical activity, and a reduction in stress-related ailments. Simultaneously, the diverse planting design aids biodiversity, creating an increase in insect species. The focus on green spaces increases as companies align with sustainability, Social Development Goals, and ESG regulations. Moreover, such spaces augment property value significantly.

Blooming Buildings is born from Tanja van der Knoop’s lifelong mission to green urban spaces at scale, benefitting people and the planet. Tanja and her team channel their expertise in landscape design, sustainability, and plantsmanship into each project. From design to maintenance, projects harmonise with clients’ objectives and keeping in line with desired return on investment. Collaboration with property owners, office tenants, and communities yields transformative outcomes, as seen at Groot Handelsgebouw.

Maintenance is a focal point, ensuring vibrant, lasting results that guarantee durability. Blooming Buildings’ commitment extends beyond greenery to encompass broader social and environmental impact. Pursuing B Corp Certification exemplifies their dedication to transparency, accountability, and verified performance.

Tanja envisions a greener Rotterdam, from street level to rooftops. Join the movement —contact us to co-create a verdant difference.

UPDATE RCD BIZ

BY HANS DE JONGE, CHAIRMAN RCD

As we have explained in the previous issue of RCD Magazine the Association RCD and the BIZ RCD (BIZ means Business Investment Zone) operate as a ‘twin’ from the beginning of 2023. The Association is busy creating a community of all parties in the area RCD and in the BIZ building owners co-operate in area development. Together we take care of communication and marketing of RCD. In area development the BIZ is active in three domains: liveability, mobility and climate adaptation.

LIVEABILITY

On the basis of research a first plan for the ‘city at eye level’ has been developed. This shows in what ways we can fill in the buildings at street level in the area in order to contribute to a lively neighbourhood. Building owners are willing to co-operate in this domain and share their plans with each other. The goal is to obtain a better ‘city at eye level’.

MOBILITY

The plans for a renewed Hofplein are offering a quality stimulus to the inner city, but they also have a big impact on the accessibilty of the RCD area. Together with the Association we strive for measures that will allow a fluid transition to a new situation in order to assure good accessibility.

The inconvenience of many bicycles and scooters that are parked in the wrong way is counteracted by creating hubs with facilities. The parking capacity will be enlarged. In the area work is in progress to create hubs with charging stations where swaps can be made from car to (share)bike or (share)scooter.

We also look into a different mode of freight logistics via special distribution points at the edge of the city. There freight could be loaded to smaller scale electric vehicles in order reduce heavy transport in the inner city.

CLIMATE ADAPTATION

RCD is an area with litlle green space which causes heat stress. We work on plans for greening the area with ‘pocketparks’. This year we will realise a number of them. There are also plans for greening facades and the use of mobile green (trees and plants in mobile boxes). This is all part of a larger plan for greening RCD in the years ahead.

With a large number of planned projects in RCD we will see a gradual change of character in the coming years. We invite you all to take part in shaping this future!

© Adrienne Wildeman

SNEAK PREVIEW OF THE ROOFTOP @ GROOT HANDELSGEBOUW

On Saturday June 24th a selected few got a first look and preview of the The Rooftop at GHG. It was a night of fun and games, food and cocktails, with an immersive maze and ribbon room, all overlooking the city of Rotterdam. The Rooftop is now open to the public, so don’t wait any longer and take a look yourself!

HOTSPOTS

This city is sizzling with all kinds of hotspots. In the Central District, too, there are loads of colourful, delicious and fun places to go. For this issue we’ve lined up three unique places that are well worth a visit, each with its own story and style.

STEEL RIDES

Located just two minutes’ walk from Rotterdam Central Station, Steel Rides can answer any and all bicycle-related questions, no matter your ride: road bike, city bike, mountain bike, vintage bike and ladies’, gents’ or child’s bike. Their dedicated team knows all the ins and outs of the fast-developing cycle sector and can supply all of your needs –from repairs, accessories, parts and service to building tailor-made bikes. If the bike you’re using to explore the city and environs is missing features or doesn’t feel quite right, the Steel Rides team will have you back in the saddle in no time!

WWW.STEELRIDES.NL

GRACE ROTTERDAM

Get ready to lose yourself for an evening at Grace restaurant, a vast selfstyled ‘festive restaurant’ on the corner of Stadhuisplein and Coolsingel. Michelin-star chef Marco Prins traded New York for Rotterdam to share his creations with our city. From their splendid open kitchen, he and his team work to delight and seduce every guest with their culinary inventions. The restaurant is open all day, so you could even linger at Grace from breakfast to dinner, never leaving their warm interior! In the evening, the restaurant serves an international menu of small plates to share. Their sprawling terrace also offers a perfect spot in summer to sit and enjoy the view of Rotterdam’s fabulous city hall. And as if all that were not enough, you can also dance the night away in their underground club, The Grit.

STADHUISPLEIN 1A

WWW.GRACEROTTERDAM.NL

NOYA LOUNGEDINING, & BAR

From two storeys up, Noya Dining, Lounge & Bar offers a great view of Rotterdam’s buzzing city centre. Here, guests can enjoy shared dining – because sharing is caring! – based around the Asian tradition of mixing and matching dishes to complement each other and enjoy side by side. From cold and hot plates to classic meals and snacks prepared from scratch. Sashimi, Asian-style tacos, sushi, grilled meat... combine your favourites and share them with friends for an extra special dining experience. To toast, their bar staff are ready to mix innovative cocktails that pair perfectly with the menu.

KAREL DOORMANSTRAAT 278 WWW.NOYARESTAURANT.NL

SCHIEKADE 205

AFFORDABLE AND SUSTAINABLE HEMP-BASED FASHION

Mik Hartman and Rubayet Akbar met at an event in 2017 and discovered a shared passion for clothing and sustainable supply chains. And that planted an idea: why not start a Rotterdambased business to kick-start the transition to a more sustainable fashion industry? After doing some research and sealing some deals, in 2019 they were ready to launch their idea and set sail on a new adventure together called Cadence Fashion. Their mission: to bring sustainability to the high street.

Mik and Rubayet’s new friendship quickly blossomed into a business partnership. Mik had always wanted to do something in the fashion industry, and wearing his own brand was a lifelong dream. Rubayet, meanwhile, had stumbled onto the ‘dark side’ of the fashion world while researching his master’s thesis on logistics in the UK, and felt driven to make a difference. “I was in the UK shopping one day when I saw a t-shirt priced at two pounds”, Rubayet recalls. “So, I asked my professor: how can anyone sell a t-shirt at this price and still make a profit? He suggested taking that as my thesis topic. I discovered that the fashion industry sadly isn’t sustainable at all, and decided that, one day, I wanted to do something in cotton trading and clothing.” Mik: “We were already talking about this idea when I met someone at a Rotterdam small business event who owned a hedge fund in the States. He said they were always looking into potential future developments and opportunities, and the hemp business came up. I phoned Rubayet straight away and said this is what we should get into.” Not long after that, the two started Cadence Fashion, a company focused on hemp-based fabric.

HEMP-BASED FABRIC

To accomplish their mission of bringing sustainable and affordable clothing to the high street, the two first had to learn more about hemp. Their research showed that this innovative crop consumes less water than others used in the clothing industry. Mik explains: “One t-shirt takes 2,700 litres of water to produce. Now imagine eight billion people wearing those t-shirts. Our t-shirts use 86% less water, even if they’re a blend of hemp and cotton. Climate change makes

it absolutely vital to think about these things.” Their research also showed that production would be easiest to realize in China as hemp is already used there. However, given the political, social and human rights issues, the two decided to take a more challenging production route and set up a completely new supply chain. Rubayet: “Bangladesh already has a huge clothing export industry to Europe and all the factories are there, which also means employment for people living there. We have third-party due diligence set up to monitor everything. This lets us produce sustainable clothes in a way that is affordable and scalable.”

SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN

Cadence Fashion is unique in the fashion industry in that it uses hemp blended with organic cotton. Because there was nothing like it being produced in Bangladesh yet, the pair had to build a new supply chain themselves. Mik: “The fact that we had to build the entire supply chain ourselves means we can guarantee that all production and transport processes are sustainable. There is no use of microplastics, or pesticides and the hemp fibre is strong.”

Cadence Fashion Holding is a business-to-business company with a consumer brand called Voriino. According to Rubayet, “We are looking to diversify our products as well as focusing on our B2B goal of developing a new hemp-cotton fabric blend to sell to other manufacturers and brands for use in their own designs.” Mik concludes, “We have all the products, the knowledge and the supply chain up and running. Now, we would love to get together with other great companies and brands to make the industry more sustainable”.

SUPPLIES INNOVATIVE VISION AS THEATER ROTTERDAM’S NEW BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Theater Rotterdam has been working to facilitate and present innovative productions for several years now. As from this summer, Herman van Karnebeek contributes to this mission as its new business director. Herman boasts a colourful career, having worked as a barrister, corporate lawyer and in management roles in events, ticketing and sales. But it’s from tapping his corporate expertise for the creative sector that he gets the greatest job satisfaction.

Herman has been working in the city’s cultural scene for some years before this, as business director at Kunsthal Rotterdam. He finds himself stirred by all the beautiful and inspiring art forms that are being created for people. “The business dynamic is different when money is not the prime motivation. For me personally, it’s amazing to be in a creative environment making things with people, where I understand the ideas, but wouldn’t be able to make it myself”, Herman laughs. “Now, I’ll get to experience that at Theater Rotterdam and am really looking forward to watching the rehearsals. At the same time, it feels like I’ve been working with this enthusiastic team for years.”

PROGRESSIVE

In his previous job, Herman was in regular contact with his predecessor at Theater Rotterdam, Walter Ligthart, and closely followed developments in the organization. “The

changes that have come with Alida Dors (artistic director) have been very exciting, I think. A key element underpinning her progressive vision is that theatre should be more inclusive.” Herman says these efforts are already bearing fruit and gaining ground. Though it’s a process that will take time, he is proud and honoured to hold this position at one of Holland’s largest theatres. “Being in such a diverse city, Theater Rotterdam was already pursuing a policy of making the theatre more accessible to broader publics, and we look forward to continuing this transition.” Herman continues, “We dare to be different and there is plenty of room for new and ground-breaking theatre. It’s a wonderful adventure.”

INSPIRATION

A host of stellar productions are coming up this season, with a line-up including Erik Whien, Davy Pieters, Nastaran Razawi Khorasani and Alida Dors. You can catch them at both Theater Rotterdam locations, on William Boothlaan and Schouwburgplein in the heart of the city. Unlike the theatre at Schouwburgplein, the square is not designed to inspire, Herman notes. “It’s a shame that the city’s plans for greening the square have been put on hold. This is a very central urban location, and I think more planting and a friendlier look would make it more inviting, which in turn would make the cultural institutions around it feel more accessible to people.”

ROTTERDAM FESTIVALS

Stationsplein 45 (Groot Handelsgebouw)

Rotterdam Festivals was established in 1993 and has since then supported and promoted festivals and cultural events that fit the DNA of this city: edgy, international and enterprising. The Rotterdam Festivals team works with creative culture makers and festival organizers to keep Rotterdam a vibrant, leading-edge and captivating metropolis of which its citizens can be proud and that people love to visit.

LOER ARCHITECTEN

Delftsestraat 33

The passionate team at Loer Architecten’s daily work revolves around the big three challenges of urban planning and architecture: intensification, greening and connection. Their focus is on craftsmanship and sustainability, with detailed consideration of society and nature. The firm is actively engaged in the energy transition and draws all projects in BIM (3D). Among their projects are Mercado Groningen, Houtbouw Leerdam and Terbregsehof.

VAN DER STAP NOTARISSEN

Weena 690 (Millennium tower)

Van der Stap Notarissen are specialized in real estate and corporate law. As an independent firm, Van der Stap Notarissen are the perfect partner for other professionals in need of civil-law notary expertise. Their expertise spans corporate governance, financing and securities, mergers and acquisitions, networks, semi-public institutions and NGOs, qualifying institutions, transactions, auctions and business law structures and new building projects.

“I HOPE TO SHED LIGHT ON SOCIOPOLITICAL STRUGGLES THAT ARE BEYOND THE HERE AND NOW.”

The winner of this spring’s RTM Pitch was the Rotterdam-based Lebanese visual artist and filmmaker Diana Al-Halabi. She has received 20,000 euros from IFFR and the Municipality of Rotterdam to create her latest project: an experimental film about migration and food inequality titled The Battle of Empty Stomachs. Tenacious in pursuing her passion, the selftaught artist seeks creative ways to spotlight social and political problems through her work. Her new film will premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam in January 2024.

After years of practicing art on her own, including teaching herself how to draw and paint, Diana decided to pursue her dream of becoming a professional artist. In 2017 she enrolled in a postgraduate art programme in Ashkal Alwan (similar to the Rijksakademie in the Netherlands), and in 2019 she was accepted to do a Master in Fine Arts in Rotterdam. “I chose Rotterdam because it is a port city, like Beirut. Leaving aside the capitalist aspect, ports feel to me like poetic places because of all the goods entering and leaving the city.”

INSPIRATION

Diana’s journey from Lebanon to Rotterdam proved no easy road and opened her eyes to migration policy and inequality. “Dutch universities don’t accept non-EU citizens on the same conditions as EU citizens. My tuition fee for one year was 11,000 euros instead of the 2,000 euros paid by EU citizens. I tried to raise all this money through sponsors, Go Fund Me and working to sell my art to wealthy buyers.” Nonetheless, Diana realizes she was privileged compared to so many others who are forced to leave their countries due to hunger or war. “I was confronted with the social and political dimensions of what it means to be privileged, or not. And all of that put me in the position to think and talk about the social and political issues.”

AWARENESS

The Battle of Empty Stomachs is set in the Maastunnel. Diana explains that she chose it because it feels like a dystopian and disorienting place. “The Maastunnel connects the south of Rotterdam, where most of the migrant communities are, with the north underwater. That parallels people trying to cross the sea from the global south to the global north.” Diana is tackling the notion of political hunger by juxtaposing famine and hunger strikes. Through her experimental short she will visualize how our digestive system is vulnerable to the political climate, and how migration is an aftermath of entangled world politics. “A lot of migrants don’t come here by choice, yet are blamed for being here even after having been through so much. People should be more aware of the struggle that got them here.”

NEW IN TOWN: KROZANT

Derived from the work croissant , but then pronounced the Rotterdammer way, Krozant is the coolest new hangout in the Central District. Yvette Jansen and Nadia Stam opened their first eatery inside the historic Groot Handelsgebouw’s multi-storey car park, where you can grab a delicious croissant and coffee on your break, on the go, or to take along on a stroll. From the classic croissant and pain au chocolat, Krozant’s menu goes right the way through to finger-licking fillings like Smoked Salmon, BLTs and Spicy Chicken Thigh!

BIG SHARED MOBILITY HUB AT CENTRAL STATION

A new shared mobility hub outside Central Station is supplying 90 scooters, 40 bikes and 12 cargo bikes – adding up to 142 vehicles – for shared use. Pictogram tiles show which vehicles belong where.

Next to Central Station

Located right outside Central Station, on Weena, the hub is easy to find and positioned to make shared mobility align seamlessly with public transport journeys. From the train platforms, it’s just a 100-metre walk to the shared ride of your choice with which to continue your journey.

Its proximity to the station makes it part of a wider public transport hub offering different options for traversing the city. Aside from these shared bikes and scooters, there are also shared cars in the Kruisplein car park.

RESTAURANT THE MILLÈN CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS

It’s five years ago already since Wim Severein launched his own fine dining establishment, The Millèn. Located on the first floor of the Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, The Millèn serves up Chef Severein’s signature pure, seasonal creations, made with authentic ingredients and minimal fuss. They do a terrific lunch that won’t break the bank, and their dinner menu takes you on a fantastic flavour-filled journey. Wim graced the cover of our third issue of RCD Magazine, when he told us all about his inspirations: “In Asia and South America I went around to loads of markets and saw it all, and I brought some of those cuisines and flavours home with me. I always reach back to those experiences when planning new dishes or menus. That there are so many nationalities and cool shops on Kruiskade is also hugely valuable to me. And I would be nowhere without my team. I am profoundly grateful to them.”

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ALBEDA WEENA

Albeda College stands out amongst its neighbours on Weena. Originally it was built for the Christian Pompenburg MEAO, an upper secondary vocational business and administration school, which merged with Albeda in 1997. The building was designed by the architect Ron Leenheer of Kruisheer Elffers Architecten, who put his signature on many schools in and around Rotterdam. The land ownership situation along this stretch of Weena is unusual and quite a puzzle, consisting of a patchwork of owners and easements.

CONNECTION

Though the green glazed stone facing is special, the building’s truly unique feature is the passage linking it with the Groot Handelsgebouw – designed by the architect Huig (aka

Hugh) Maaskant, better known for the Euromast – which runs through the building. Cutting it into two sections, this connective element pre-dates the current structure. At ground level, the opaque glazing makes it difficult to see inside the building. As well as offering privacy from prying eyes, it also keeps out the heat. This design feature was likely prompted by its original busy urban setting.

As part of the construction of Rotterdam’s second metro line in around 2010, builders had to drill down to a depth of some 18 metres a mere five metres from Albeda. The ground (mostly sand with groundwater), was frozen using a special liquid in order to be able to drill a perfect tunnel. Thanks to some excellent project management, the building came through unscathed.

Albeda former Real Estate Project Manager Peter Rodenburg and former student, now architect, Mark Mes offer a brief recap of the origins of Weena’s green landmark

FACTS & FIGURES

SURFACE AREA: 6,825 m2

ARCHITECT: Ron Leenheer, Kruisheer Elffers

COMPLETED: 1991

FLOORS:

3 at the front, 4 at the rear. The upper floors are bisected by a flyover from the Groot Handelsgebouw and reconverge in a roof addition housing technical facilities on top of the building.

FACULTY: The Weena location is home to programmes run by the economics and enterprise college.

FUN FACTS

• Located a short walk from Rotterdam’s fabulous central station.

• The building has several large two-storey halls.

• The old gymnasium was recently converted into a dynamic ‘learning plaza’.

• The cafeteria is aptly named the ‘Rotterdam Room’ in a nod to its supercentral location.

• Albeda is Rotterdam’s only completely green building, from 26 Albeda locations. Except for the window frames, which are blue! In fact, the blue frames kept out so much sunlight that a few of the windows were (quietly) replaced with clear glass.

• The building has a split-level construction, with the whole rear section elevated relative to the front.

JOIN THE ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT COMMUNITY

In order to realize our ambitions and to optimally develop the potential of the district, we have been bundling all the knowledge and interest groups in the area into an association since 2009: Rotterdam Central District.

Not only are we aware of and familiar with all of the developments in the area, we are also joining forces in the neighborhood to create a good reputation for the district. We are a catalyst for positive change. We discover, connect and take action to make this happen. In collaboration with organizations, both small and large, investors, residents and the municipality, we are building a more social, green and sustainable area with an authentic and robust reputation. Our association stands up for the interests of your organization. Together we develop the area, we put it on the map. Join our community.

The association keeps you informed of developments of and stories from the neighborhood. We also host various events for the community, from lunch concerts to neighborhood drinks and substantive sessions. In this way, we stimulate connections and possible collaborations, good for expanding or maintaining your network. We join forces to work on area development and a good reputation of the district.

To achieve this we have:

• RCD Talks: knowledge sessions about and from the district

• RCD Events: network drinks, events and lunch concerts

• RCD Q&A: source of information and a brainstorming day for the neighborhood

• General meeting: meeting regarding the realization of the area plans

• News & updates: various substantive articles, interviews and news updates

• Magazine: 10,000 circulation, 4 times a year. RCD members advertise with a discount

• RCD Podcast: conversations with entrepreneurs from the area

• Various active social media channels: Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Facebook

• Monthly online newsletter featuring the latest news from RCD

Please contact Leontine Oerlemans (06 44 60 83 21)

Or mail to : leontine@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

Association Rotterdam Central District

Weena 690 (14e verdieping)

3012 CN Rotterdam

For more information about RCD, please visit: www.rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

© Iris van den Broek

Association Rotterdam Central District

Weena 690 (14th floor)

3012 CN Rotterdam

info@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

www.rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

Magazine RCD is issued by:

RCD Publishers

Groot Handelsgebouw, 7th floor Stationsplein 45

3013 AK Rotterdam +31 (0) 20 362 09 93 info@rcdpublishers.nl www.rcd publishers.nl

Our goal: With an excellent business climate, world-renowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, RCD has huge potential. Association Rotterdam Central District contributes to the RCD by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions.

Circulation: Free for the RCD district. The magazine is distributed by promo teams, loose circulation and HRM departments of companies within RCD to guarantee reaching the (sub) target groups of RCD.

Frequency: Four times a year

Editor-in-chief: Romy Lange

Managing Editors: Céline Boute

Intern: Isabel Kok

Photography: Marjolijn Tenge, Bastiaan de Haas, Studio Bellamie Fotografie, Caily Bobbie Jo, Influence Through The Lens, Antim, Adrienne Wildeman

Advertising: Please send an e-mail to info@rcdpublishers.nl for questions about advertising.

Art Direction and Graphic Design: vanStijl

Translation: Taalcentrum-VU

Printed by: magazine-masters.nl

Do you have a message for the editorial team or would you like to place an ad? Send us an e-mail at info@rcdpublishers.nl.

Thanks to: Petra Beris, Groot Handelsgebouw, Jamestown, Rotterdam Central District, Maarsen Groep, Savills, Tuesday, Gemeente Rotterdam, World Trade Center Rotterdam, Miranda van Spengen, Kees van Oorschot, Hans de Jonge, Lysanne Wilkens, a.s.r. real estate, Ballast Nedam, Blooming Buildings, Tanja van der Knoop, Eduard Voorn, Corporate Housing Factory, Grardie Akkerhuis, PYGG, Diana Al-Halabi, Gerwin Smit, Herman van Karnebeek, VNG International, Mik Hartman, Rubayet Akbar, Albeda Weena

MEMBERS VERENIGING ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT

3MP online video

AKRD

Alticom B.V.

Amber

Arconiko Architecten

ASR

Atelier van Berlo

Bar Rotterdam bv

Big Room B.V./Reverse/Mykech

Broodje Q

Carthago Consultancy

CBRE

CBRE global investors

CIC Rotterdam

Ciphix BV

Codarts

Colliers

Conix RDBM

Cromwell Property Group

Cushman & Wakefield

DakAkker rooftopfarm foundation

De Mik Bedrijfshuisvesting

District East

DVDW advocaten

Echo

Eneco

Eurekon

Gemeente Rotterdam

Greenberg Nielsen

Greenchoice

Groot Handelsgebouw

High Potential Academy

Holmris B8

Humanoids BV

JLL

LaatBloeien

Lebkov & Sons

Loer Architecten

LS&H Lawyers

BIZ MEMBERS

Achmea Pensioen

ADG Beheer B.V.

Boutique hotel

ASR Levensverzekering N.V.

Looije Properties

CBRE DOF Custodian B.V.

Central Post B.V.

CENTRAL010 B.V.

Doric Investment GmbH

FIRST Rotterdam Gebouw A B.V.

GHG B.V.

Hofplein Offices (Rotterdam) B.V.

Hofplein Ontwikkel B.V.

J.P. van Eesteren B.V.

LSI Ontwikkeling BV

Lucie Group B.V.

Maarsen Groep

Mess

NS

Ooms Makelaars Bedrijfshuisvesting

B.V.

Pike Delivery

Pluq Studio

PPF

Premier Suites Plus Rotterdam

Provast

Rabobank Rotterdam

Roodkapje

Rotterdam Festivals

Rotterdam Marriott Hotel

Rotterdam Partners

Salsability

SaM& doethetgewoon.

Sanderdebreukconsultancy bv

Scapino Ballet Rotterdam

Spaces Hofplein

Steel Rides

Stichting De Nieuwe Poort

Stichting Theater Rotterdam

Studentflex

Time is the new space

Unilever NV

Urban Minds B.V.

Van der Stap notarissen

vanStijl

Vereniging Rotterdam Central District

Vereniging Verenigd Schouwburgplein

VPS

Workspot

Wrap Maniacs

WTC Rotterdam

Yogaground

ZUS

Magnum Property Limited

Mara B.V. Beleggings en Exploitatie

Millennium Tower (Rotterdam) B.V.

Neo (Weena 200) B.V.

NS Stations Retailbedrijf B.V.

NS Vastgoed B.V.

Pompenburg (Rotterdam) B.V.

ProRail B.V.

Railinfratrust B.V.

Stadsontwikkeling - Vastgoed

UNION INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE

Wisdom (Weena Tower) B.V.

Yova Central Plaza B.V.

Copyright © 2023 RCD Publishers. All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.

If your company isn’t on this list, please contact info@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

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