Completion of Herta Mohr Building: A New Era at Leiden

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Technical Sheet

  • Client: Vastgoedbedrijf Universiteit Leiden
  • End User: Faculty of Humanities, African Studies Centre, and Middle Eastern Library
  • Contractor: Construction consortium Constructif/Kuijpers
  • Completion Date: March 31, 2024
  • Gross Floor Area: 11,400 m²
  • Sustainability Performance: BREEAM Excellent

A Transformative Renovation

Leiden University recently celebrated the completion of the Herta Mohr building, a significant project that involved the circular renovation and extension of the former Cluster Zuid facility for the Faculty of Humanities. Originally designed by architect Joop van Stigt in the late 1970s, Cluster Zuid was a striking example of structuralist architecture. The renovation was led by the architecture firm De Zwarte Hond, and the building was re-inaugurated on October 8, 2024, marking a new chapter in its life that combines sustainability with enhanced usability.

Enhancing Usability and Cohesion

The renovation aimed to address several shortcomings of the original design, particularly the challenging navigation and dark interior spaces. The previous layout consisted of seven separate “houses,” which created confusion and limited interaction among users. The newly designed central atrium replaces the former central house, flooding the interior with natural light and providing a cohesive space for orientation. Visitors can now navigate more easily thanks to diagonal sightlines that connect the existing structures to this vibrant heart of the building.

In addition to the central atrium, the renovation introduced an eighth house with a sleek anodized aluminum façade on the Maliebaan side. This addition aligns with van Stigt’s original vision, which was never realized due to previous constraints. The building now offers over 700 teaching spaces, self-study areas, two lecture theatres, workrooms, and common rooms, along with the libraries of the African Studies Centre and Middle Eastern Studies program.

Sustainability as a Guiding Principle

A hallmark of the Herta Mohr project is its commitment to sustainability. The renovation incorporated 72% more sustainable measures than required by existing building regulations. The building has achieved a BREEAM Excellent certification, reflecting its low emissions and use of high-quality materials. Key features include enhanced insulation, the installation of solar panels, and a heat/cold storage system.

The project also emphasizes the reuse of materials, which aligns with contemporary sustainable practices. Notably, concrete columns from the demolished central house were repurposed in the new structure, while old Sequoia redwood ceiling panels were transformed into wall cladding in the atrium. This careful consideration of materials significantly minimizes waste and enhances the building’s environmental performance.

Connecting with the Community

Beyond its functional and sustainable improvements, the Herta Mohr building fosters greater interaction with its surroundings. The entrance connects the external square with the internal atrium, promoting engagement with both students and the local community. Additional outdoor seating areas encourage social interaction, making the building a welcoming space for both learning and collaboration.

This renovation represents the first phase of an overarching plan to enhance the Humanity Campus, which aims to create better connections with the city and the adjacent green canal park. The Herta Mohr building stands as a testament to how architecture, led by Joop van Stigt and executed by De Zwarte Hond, can adapt to modern needs while respecting its historical context.

Conclusion

The Herta Mohr building’s renovation signifies a thoughtful approach to institutional architecture that respects the past while embracing sustainability and community engagement. As it opens its doors to students and faculty, it reflects a commitment to educational excellence and environmental stewardship, ensuring its place in the collective memory of Leiden University for years to come.

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