The design team for the new accommodation for the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies on the site of the existing Spinoza building has been announced. On Wednesday 30 August 2023 the contract was signed by Agnes Muskens, vice-president of the Radboud University's Executive Board, and Dick de Gunst, architect-director of DP6 architecture studio. The design team consists of DP6 architecture studio, Nelissen ingenieursbureau, Van Rossum-Raadgevende Ingenieurs and Zenber Architecten.
Sustainability ambition
In the coming years, the Spinoza building will be developed into a modern working and study environment that suits the faculties and meets the high sustainability ambition. Radboud University aims for a maximally circular and energy-positive building. Preservation of the shell of the high-rise section is the starting point for this.
The design team was selected for their expertise, innovative design approach and sustainable solutions. The architects, engineers and sustainability experts will work closely with Radboud University to create a suitable working and study environment in accordance with the guidelines and specifications set out in the Programme of Requirements. An energy-positive environment that not only meets the needs of the users, but also has a positive impact on the environment and the campus.
Impression of the new accommodation on the site of the current Spinoza building
Design vision
At an informal meeting, Dick de Gunst presented the design vision and future shape of the building. He compared the building to a bookend, referring to the importance of books for both faculties.
After the signing, on the terrace of the Spinoza building with a view of the Erasmus building, Agnes Muskens expressed her confidence in the cooperation with all parties and made the architect's comparison campus-wide: "Two buildings, symbolising like bookends the knowledge and quality of two of the oldest faculties on campus and maintaining the connection".
Design phase
The signing of the contract marks the start of the design phase in the Housing FdL-FFTR project. In the design phase, the requirements and specifications of the Programme of Requirements (PvE) are further elaborated and translated into concrete designs, plans and documentation. The work(place) concept will also be further fleshed out and developed in this phase, as it is an important part of the design.
More information on the different phases and their completion can be found on the Housing FdL-FFTR project page.
