3e Westenwagenhof

On the Westewagenstraat, next to the iconic Laurenskerk, two Reconstruction-era buildings have made way for hAavn, two new buildings with student housing. Architect Sjoerd Berghuis of KLUNDER Architects designed the two buildings, and the project was further developed by Leyten and Van Maren.

Due to the cultural-historical significance of the two buildings, the characteristic urban structure and Reconstruction-era architecture have been reintroduced in the new construction. Elements from the two old buildings can be seen in the new towers, and a plaque commemorating the ‘Bleekneusjes’ is found on the facade. The old buildings had a rear facing towards the water, a common feature of Wederopbouw buildings in the city center. With the new construction, the waterside has become the front, creating space for terraces by the water.

The rooftop has also been well utilized. There are rooftop terraces with plenty of plant beds and trees. This makes the roof beneficial for flora and fauna, water retention, and urban heat mitigation. On one of the rooftops stands a greenhouse, where students can garden.