Microlab signs for 7.000 m2 on the 6 top floors of Rotterdam Building

Ballast Nedam Development has concluded a long-term lease agreement with Microlab for the Rotterdam Building. Rotterdam Building is an iconic office building in the center of Rotterdam located next to the De Lijnbaan shopping area, at Aert van Nesstraat 45. Microlab will use the top 6 floors, where a members-only sky bar will also be created. JLL advised Ballast Nedam Development on this transaction.

A new step forward in office concepts

With Microlab, among others, Rotterdam Building will offer space for co-working, flexible work and an office space concept for self-employed people, but also small and medium-sized parties at an attractive price. This creates a warm open community that together gives substance to this place in the city. Rotterdam Building is an example of a new generation of buildings with social significance for the city and gives a completely new interpretation to office concepts, a trend prompted by a global pandemic.

Ömer Cufadar, Director of Asset Management: "The changing office market and the way in which our attitude towards offices has rapidly changed has an impact on the duration and flexibility of lease contracts, the need for shared services and good facilities in a central location. This lease agreement is in line with the strategy we have determined for Rotterdam Building and is in line with the latest trends and developments. We are convinced that Microlab is a valuable addition to the city of Rotterdam and the new concept for Rotterdam Building. The rental of Rotterdam Building is currently in full swing and we hope to announce more transactions in the coming months.”

An architectural icon reborn

Rotterdam Building is an office building from 1976 of approximately 22,000 square meters and was designed by Kraaijvanger Architects at the time. The agency is also involved in the development of the new plans. The building will undergo a sustainable metamorphosis in the near future in which the character of the building will be strengthened, restored to its former glory as much as possible and prepared for the future. During the renovation, in which the entrance will be expanded and the facade improved, more communal functions will also be given to the lower floors to give a positive boost to the liveliness in and around the building. The renovation is expected to be completed in its entirety by mid-2022.

Proven concept comes to Rotterdam

Microlab, from Eindhoven, will open its second branch in Rotterdam in September. In addition to workplaces, there are meeting and event spaces to connect Rotterdam residents. “It's about giving entrepreneurs and their employees the tools so that they can do their work better and easier.” says Rik Visser, co-owner of Microlab. “This consists of inspiring physical spaces, but also absolutely the human interaction with our (current) community of more than 230 companies and 900 employees.” The size of the building makes it possible to provide organizations of all sizes with the resources normally reserved for multinationals or government agencies.

More about Rotterdam Building and contact details: www.RotterdamBuilding.com More about Microlab in Rotterdam Building: Rotterdam.Microlab.nl