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Renovation Three Climate Greenhouse Hortus can start

The environmental permit for the renovation of the Three Climate Greenhouse of the Hortus in Amsterdam has been granted. This brings the renovation of the iconic Greenhouse one step closer. Architectural studio ZJA was the designer of the greenhouse in 1993, and now also designed the updated, sustainable design. Both the design and the layout of the interior are by BOOM Landscape and Designwolf, while ABT is once again responsible for the construction.

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Renewed and sustainable icon

The eye-catcher of the Amsterdam Hortus Botanicus was designed by ZJA in the early 1990s, as a contemporary construction of steel and glass.

It became a popular attraction for visitors and Amsterdam residents. Three decades later, the Three Climate Greenhouse is ready for a major renovation. An urgency that the Hortus uses to sustainably renew the greenhouse. It will be the first gas-free public greenhouse in the Netherlands. And also the only place where the importance of plant biodiversity and its relationship with climate is explained. With all sustainable adjustments, the preservation of the characteristic elements and an optimal living environment for the plant collection, the renovated Three-Climate Greenhouse of the Hortus will be completely ready for the future.

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The new design by ZJA visibly promotes sustainable innovation, while the silhouette of the greenhouse remains recognizable. The characteristic main load-bearing structure, so iconic for the Hortus, is retained. The distinctive rhythm and refinement of the existing frontage with its white lines recur in our new design, while its single glass is replaced by insulating double glazing and the roof is provided with lightweight insulating air cushions. Finally, the plants will benefit optimally from the renovation and the new climate-control systems.

Kay Oosterman, architect and partner ZJA

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The story of biodiversity

Now that biodiversity is under so much pressure, telling the story of biodiversity is becoming increasingly important for the Hortus. 

If we want visitors to act differently with our mission, namely with care for nature, then we must of course also show that this is possible.

Carlien Blok, director of the Hortus

 

Not only will the greenhouse have insulating roofs, double glazing, storage for reuse of (rain)water and smart, energy-efficient climate systems, the interior will also be overhauled.

 

In addition to a new subtropical space, the renovated tropical greenhouse section and desert section, there will also be additional exhibition space to explain the story of biodiversity and its relationship with climate on a global scale.

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Opening in 2025

By receiving the environmental permit, the Hortus can now enter the final phase; the actual renovation. The current greenhouse will close for renovation at the end of February 2024 and will reopen in 2025: the year in which Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary.

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