De Groene Kaap is a nature-inclusive stepping stone in the urban nature network of Rotterdam. LOLA Landscape Architects’ approach to the built environment is centered around creating a nature-based city. A series of courtyards and roof landscape gardens allows people, animals, and plants to thrive in their habitat. With 450 homes spread across four residential blocks and five towers, the residential complex interconnects the Katendrecht neighbourhood with the Rotterdam green network.
LOLA designed a green rooftop landscape to connects as much as possible to the slow networks of the city. De Groene Kaap includes 7600 square meters of roof gardens, of which 80% of the entire roof surface is covered with greenery. The design incorporates various natural play elements, such as tree trunks, boulders, and semi-paved surfaces, that enhance the biological effect. The bridges, towering at 30 meters high, connect all four residential blocks and courtyards, providing an ideal “upper city” ambience.
The rooftop landscape of De Groene Kaap begins at ground level and gradually ascends to its highest viewpoint. A continuous walking route, guided by a metal line, loops through and over all four blocks. The blue metal line serves as a pathway and doubles as a bench and playful furniture, enhancing the overall experience of residents and visitors alike.
The inclusion of a wider variety of green areas in De Groene Kaap creates a relaxed, park-like environment that residents and visitors can enjoy. The building facades are adorned with climbing plants, giving them a natural and inviting feel—the courtyard facade houses 50 nesting boxes, which provides an inviting environment for biodiversity. Planters are strategically placed between the individual terraces to offer privacy, while the courtyard plant areas brings the community closer together. With 20,000 perennials and 167 trees, it is an eco-friendly destination for people, as well as for sparrows, bees and hedgehogs. In the green inner world, space is provided at strategic points for (semi)public programmes such as meeting places or childcare facilities. Since the completion De Groene Kaap has been an example project for both new projects in The Netherlands and abroad.
Architecture offices involved in the design: Deltavormgroep, Bureau MASSA
Location: Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Design year: 2019
Year Completed: 2021
