Utrecht University takes next step in Van Unnik building transformation

A vibrant centre

The Project Uniek is not only about the redevelopment of the Van Unnik building, but also about creating a vibrant centre on campus. A vibrant campus area will be developed around the building, including space for catering, study workplaces and large meeting spaces. The planned adaptations to the campus should ensure that the area invites meeting and movement. The aim is to create a place where students, teachers and researchers can meet and collaborate on the challenges of the future.

Sustainable and future-proof design

During the ceremony, Margot van der Starre, Vice-President of the Executive Board of Utrecht University, emphasised how this project perfectly aligns with the university's ambitions regarding sustainability and progressive design. "Our journey to this moment has a rich history. Utrecht University has always strived to be sustainable and progressive, the decision to redevelop the Van Unnik building is proof of this," Van der Starre said.

The five golden rules for the redevelopment underline the ambitious goals: the Van Unnik building should become a functional education, research and office environment that enhances the vibrancy of the campus centre area, stimulates meeting and collaboration, is energy-neutral and is redeveloped with circular and healthy building techniques. Mecanoo, known for its expertise in sustainable architecture, was chosen as lead designer because of its vision that perfectly matches UU's ambitions for the Van Unnik building and the area around it. "We are confident they will help us realise these ambitions," Van der Starre said.

An architect with the right experienc

The collaboration with Mecanoo is crucial in realising the university's ambitions. Mecanoo is a renowned Dutch architecture firm known for its innovative and contextually sensitive designs. They emphasize understanding the environment in which their buildings stand. They take into account the culture, history and social needs of an area, leading to buildings that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. A prominent example project is the TU Delft Library with its innovative design that blurs the boundaries between architecture and landscape. But also De Nederlandse Bank which is a similar large-scale and sustainable renovation as planned for the Van Unnik building. "The balance between creativity, sustainability and functionality aligns perfectly with our goals, and we are confident that they will help us realise these ambitions," Van der Starre said.