Sustainable and healthy real estate: CFP’s role in Groot Handelsgebouw and World Port Center
The latest edition of the BREEAM-NL Magazine highlights two impressive projects in which CFP Green Buildings played a key role: Groot Handelsgebouw and World Port Center in Rotterdam. These two iconic buildings, with their rich histories, have now been transformed into sustainable landmarks for the future.
Groot Handelsgebouw: from monument to sustainable icon
Groot Handelsgebouw is one of the first national monuments in the Netherlands to achieve a BREEAM-NL In-Use Excellent score. Originally inaugurated by Queen Juliana in 1953, this landmark building houses approximately 200 tenants and received international recognition in 2024 with a nomination for the BREEAM Awards.
Together with Jamestown and Duurzaamheidscertificering.nl, CFP Green Buildings guided the sustainability process. BREEAM-NL Expert Sander van den Berg ensured that all measures were not only feasible but also optimally aligned with the BREEAM-NL methodology.
Through a strategic approach and targeted energy improvements, the building now holds an EPC A—an exceptional achievement for a national monument. This was accomplished by replacing outdated cooling systems with more sustainable alternatives, implementing efficient heat pumps, and introducing smart energy monitoring. Additionally, the former elevated loading and unloading area has been transformed into a green communal space for the local community.
“It was a significant investment in both time and money, and we had to make well-considered choices to meet the strict requirements for a national monument. However, the result is a massive energy saving, making the building ready for the next 70 years.”
World Port Center: a unique combination of BREEAM-NL and WELL
The World Port Center, a 123-meter-high office tower on the banks of the Maas River, has not only been made more sustainable but also healthier for its users. Thanks to an integrated approach and the expertise of CFP Green Buildings, the building has achieved both a BREEAM-NL Excellent and WELL Gold certification—a rare combination in the Netherlands.
BREEAM-NL Expert Lian van Uem from CFP Green Buildings explains how a strategic approach made it possible to achieve both certifications efficiently. By conducting BREEAM-NL and WELL assessments in parallel and strategically aligning measures, both costs and project timelines were optimized. This ensured that energy efficiency, health, and user comfort were seamlessly integrated.
Key sustainability and health measures included:
- Energy efficiency: district heating connection, energy-efficient lighting, and cooling with river water
- Biodiversity & nature: installation of birdhouses and insect hotels
- Health & well-being: increased natural daylight, green indoor spaces, and relaxation areas
- Healthy nutrition: free water stations with daily changing flavors and a restaurant promoting healthy eating
“By identifying overlaps between BREEAM-NL and WELL, we were able to save time and costs while implementing impactful measures.”
The architectural design of the building also contributes to user well-being. Most workspaces offer stunning views of the Maas River, the ground floor has been restructured to maximize natural light, and interior choices reflect the maritime surroundings.
With this integrated approach, World Port Center not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances a healthy and inspiring working environment.
A Future-Proof Approach to Sustainable Real Estate
These projects showcase how CFP Green Buildings integrates sustainability into iconic buildings, demonstrating that energy efficiency, health, and long-term resilience go hand in hand when applying a well-thought-out strategy.
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