Episode 3 of the SAWA video series “Together” on timber construction

During the opening of SAWA, performed by Her Majesty Queen Máxima, we told the story of this building through six short videos. Not a traditional presentation, but personal stories about why SAWA was created, what it means to the residents, and how the ambitions come together in practice.

In this video series, we look back on that special day and take you step by step through SAWA's core values: from climate and timber construction to social inclusivity, biodiversity, and community. Together, these videos show that building differently is not only necessary but also visibly contributes to a livable city, strong communities, and more space for nature. We will be sharing the videos one by one in the coming period.

Video 3 – Wood Construction & Innovation

Building trust, craftsmanship, and a future

SAWA was built using circular timber construction principles—and that presented its share of challenges. Innovations that had never before been applied on this scale required boldness, collaboration, and new ways of thinking and building.

Maries Jumelet and René van Druten (ERA Contour) and Johan-Paul Borreman (DERIX) discuss construction practices: pioneering, collaboration, and developing the solutions needed to make timber construction on this scale possible.
For many of the builders involved, SAWA was an eye-opener: working on a project where, unlike highly polluting concrete construction, you visibly contribute to a better world for future generations. That pride and enthusiasm are palpable—and continue to inspire.

Watch the previous video in the series SAWA — Living together, building together, celebrating together .
For more information about SAWA or to get in touch: email pr@nicedevelopers.nl