CasaNova Building

CasaNova, part of the high-rise cluster in Wijnhaven, is a striking example of Rotterdam's new generation of towers. Its all-sided and recognisable triangular volume gives a new impetus to the Wijnhaven area, which is transforming from an anonymous office district into a lively part of the city centre. By activating the corner of Wijnhaven, a new enhanced connection is made between the Oude Haven and the Markthal, via the Leuvehaven and the Witte de Withstraat to Museumpark. CasaNova's entrance lobby is extended across the entire depth of the block, from Wijnhaven to Wijnstraat. This new crossing creates movement and activity in both streets and provides residents with a full-fledged entrance from both city sides through a unique 'doorway lobby'.
The characteristic shape of CasaNova is a creative response to KCAP's urban plan, which stipulates that for every square metre of ground, 22m³ of building may be returned. The choice was made to cut away volume at the bottom and add volume at the top, so that it appears to balance on a pedestal, like a sculpture. The slender volume creates optimal sightlines and daylight in the surrounding buildings, and space for a 1,600m² roof garden where residents of CasaNova and The Muse can meet each other. By placing the roof garden on level five rather than on the roof the tower, the garden is also connected to the ground level.
The unusual shape gives the apartments spectacular 300-degree views over the city, offering a very special living experience. At the corners of the triangle there are generous balconies of 15m2, designed as an outdoor room of the living space, all exposed to the morning and evening sun. The triangular shape with its tip facing south, allows optimal exposure to sunlight.
The idea of sculpting a tower is also reflected in the facade design. Hand-cut panels of reddish-brown natural stone give the tower an artisanal and warm character. As light changes, the strong relief in the stone constantly gives the building a new look. Towards the top of the tower, the panels get wider and wider, with smoothly polished flattening. The façade design slightly transforms up to the top of the building.