Royal opening of SAWA – the aftermovie

On November 18, 2025, SAWA was officially opened by Her Majesty Queen Máxima. This marked a special moment for the residents, the neighborhood, and all partners who, over the past years, have worked with vision, courage, and collaboration on this circular wooden residential building on the Lloydpier in Rotterdam.

The opening marked more than just the completion of a building. It was a celebration of a new construction approach: timber and biobased, socially inclusive, and nature-inclusive. SAWA is a building that not only provides homes but also contributes to community, biodiversity, and a healthy city.

During the opening, the residents were central. Through personal stories, images, and encounters, it became clear what SAWA truly represents: living together, sharing together, and collectively caring for the place where you live.
A special moment in the program was the spoken word performance by Amara van der Elst, who, with her ode to SAWA, powerfully and empathetically articulated the central theme of TOGETHER — about living together, building together, and taking collective responsibility for the city.

Watch the aftermovie here:

With special thanks to:

Her Majesty Queen Máxima
Royal Household
Mayor Schouten
Municipality of Rotterdam
Mei architects and planners
Focus on Impact
All those involved in the creation of SAWA
All residents of SAWA

The opening and this video are the initiative of NICE Developers ERA Contour.

Opening presentation: Emma van der Leest
Spoken word performance: Amara van der Elst

Special thanks to those involved in the organization and the opening video:

NICE Developers Mark Compeer, Robert Winkel, Mieke Winkel-Vullings
ERA Contour TBI – Bianca Seekles, Jeroen Heijdra, Maries Jumelet, René van Druten, Mirjam van den Bos
Mei architects and planners – Robert Platje
DERIX – Johan-Paul Borreman
Focus on Impact – Freek Boeijen
Bureau Stadsnatuur – Niels de Zwarte
De Natuurlijke Stad – Piet Vollaard
Community of SAWA – Residents: Gerdien, Rita, Eline, Hugo, Evelien, Maurice; the SAWA homeowners' association board and party committee
Raad & Daad – Gloria Huisman

Photos of opening: Jorrit Lousberg
Photos of SAWA: Ossip van Duivenbode
Video: AMMO – Amber Heij