Tower in a Factory

Tower in a Factory transforms a historic industrial complex in Katendrecht, Rotterdam, into a mixed-use ensemble with a new residential tower. The project builds on the existing fabric, retaining the fine-grained structure of the original buildings and reusing elements wherever possible. The ground floor accommodates neighbourhood amenities and green courtyards that reconnect the site to its surroundings. The tower introduces a clear structural framework with a load-bearing facade and a central corridor with daylight. This setup allows apartments to be easily combined or subdivided over time, supporting long-term adaptability. The environmental strategy is intentionally low-tech: balconies provide fixed solar shading, while an airtight and well-insulated envelope prevents overheating without mechanical systems. The result is a robust and flexible building that extends the life of the existing ensemble and supports the ongoing transformation of the Rijnhaven area, while remaining rooted in the industrial history of Katendrecht.