Rotterdam in development

84 R O T T E R D A M I N D E V E L O P M E N T | 2 0 1 8 The design consists of a fusion of two rings, with the outermost ring containing 36 rotating floors that function as viewing platforms. Each floor has its own programme, ranging from high-end retail to cocktail bars. The ring itself is static. The floors rotate internally on a rail system, like a giant coaster, with 36 unique experiences. The inner ring is formed to harvest energy from the wind and the sun; it optimises the potential for passive heating, cooling and ventilation of the spaces. The programme in the inner ring consists of a panorama restaurant, a sky lobby, a hotel, apartments and commercial functions at the base of the building. In the future, depending on the location chosen, the building could be used as a cruise terminal for river ships, potentially even for ocean-going vessels. CHALLENGES In cooperation with its partners in innovation and investment, the Windwheel Corporation* is planning to bring the concept to life in the heart of the innovative architectural centre of Rotterdam. DoepelStrijkers and Arup carried out an initial technical feasibility study from November 2016 to March 2017 which resulted in the foundation challenging itself to produce a further explanation of its ambitions, core design features from a technical perspective and proposals for further investigation. This input led to optimisations in the design concept, translated to the Dutch Windwheel 2.0. Until June 2018, the partners who collaborate on the foundation will tackle a variety of the aspects and challenges identified. This should produce the Dutch Windwheel Formula. Next, they will identify the feasibility and the requirements in the context of Rotterdam. The Dutch Windwheel Formula includes the generic framework of systems and technologies relating to the programmatic requirements, the spatial development of the construction project and its location-specific development. Elements of the formula can be used in a variety of combinations for other projects at locations throughout the world. The Dutch Windwheel Corporation aims to realise its concept in the port city of Rotterdam. Three possible locations have been identified along the Maas. These locations will be investigated further during the feasibility study, in consultation with the city of Rotterdam and the stakeholders in the areas concerned. EXTRAORDINARILY AMBITIOUS The ambition is for the Dutch Windwheel to generate its own energy from renewable sources. The energy will be stored on site to create its View of an apartment with adjacent outdoor space which functions as a climate zone