Penthouse for the peregrine falcon marks SAWA's highest point SAWA Rotterdam celebrates another significant milestone

SAWA, the Netherlands' very first 50-meter-high circular timber residential building, has reached its highest point. This milestone was symbolically marked by the placement of a specially designed nest box, "the peregrine falcon's penthouse," on SAWA's roof, signifying the iconic building's definitive height.

Watch the video of SAWA's highest point here:

Circular Timber Construction

SAWA, located in the heart of Rotterdam, is much more than just a residential building. It symbolizes sustainability, healthy living, and circular construction, combined with mid-segment rental and private sector homes. The use of timber as the primary building material plays a crucial role in this, as wood is a renewable resource that stores CO₂ rather than emitting it. By building with timber, we align with the Paris Agreement, aiming to limit the temperature increase to no more than 1.5 degrees by 2050. SAWA's innovative construction ensures that materials can be easily reused in the future, making the building fully circular.

We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far," says Mark Compeer of NICE Developers is not only a technological breakthrough in construction, but also an example of how we can develop cities in a sustainable and healthy way. This project shows how we can build homes and contribute to a better climate.

Nature-Inclusive Design

In addition to its groundbreaking design and circular timber construction, SAWA also contributes to urban biodiversity. The facades feature no less than 700 linear meters of planters, containing over 3,000 site-specific plants from 19 different species. Furthermore, 140 nesting boxes have been integrated, including the specially designed nest box for the peregrine falcon. Through this nature-inclusive approach, SAWA enhances biodiversity and connects with the existing ecological structures of the surroundings.

Penthouse for the Peregrine Falcon

Rotterdam is popular among peregrine falcons. According to Bureau Stadsnatuur, they prefer to nest on tall buildings to have an overview of their prey. Due to its location on the Maas River, SAWA is an attractive spot for peregrine falcons. These raptors feed not only on city pigeons but also on birds that follow the water. Currently, nine peregrine falcon pairs reside in Rotterdam. It remains to be seen when the tenth pair will take up residence in the nest box on SAWA's roof.

Especially in the urban and largely stony environment of the Lloydkwartier, SAWA offers significant added value for the biodiversity of the entire district,” explains ecologist Niels de Zwarte of Bureau Stadsnatuur, who is closely involved in the project. “By creating habitats for birds, butterflies, and bees, we help nature find a place in an otherwise urbanized environment.

Completion in Sight

With the construction reaching its highest point, SAWA's completion is drawing nearer. SAWA will comprise 50 mid-segment rental homes, 20 private sector rental homes, and 39 owner-occupied residences. The delivery of the first homes is scheduled for mid-next year. The ground floor will feature a catering establishment and a community facility, for which an operator is still being sought.

Collaborating Partners

SAWA is being developed by NICE Developers TBI company ERA Contour, which is also responsible for the construction. Derix Group is supplying and installing the wood. Mei architects and planners the architect behind the project, and Focus on Impact as the investor for the rental properties.