CBRE Investment Management has signed an agreement with the Cartesius consortium (MRP and Ballast Nedam Development) at the Dutch property fair, PROVADA, that will see the development of more than 350 apartments spread over 3 buildings in Cartesius, Utrecht. The apartments are part of phase 2 of the Cartesius development, a diverse, sustainable, and healthy new city district in Utrecht, the Netherlands. The construction of 56 apartments, part of the Nicoya sub-area, will begin this summer with a total of 242 homes. Developments in the Loma Linda sub-areas and the apartment complex above the CAB building at the district’s centre will follow later. This monumental building will provide 246 apartments for private rental that are directly connected to Cartesius Park, an open green oasis in the middle of the district, and the Green Loop around Cartesius. At least 30% of the district will be green open space, promoting climate adaptation and biodiversity.
The buildings in Cartesius have low energy consumption. The energy for hot water and heating is generated from a collective geothermal energy source and equipped with solar panels. Every new resident receives a free introductory subscription for shared mobility. There will be plentiful bicycle parking and good cycle paths. The new bicycle tunnel under the railway enables residents in Cartesius to quickly reach the historic city centre. Residents of Cartesius receive a membership of the Cartesius area association for a number of activities.
Paul Oremus, Country Manager & Manager of Dutch Funds at CBRE Investment Management, commented: "This acquisition in Cartesius, Utrecht, fits with the strategy of our Dutch housing platform, which focuses on investing in sustainable, healthy living and working environments. We are pleased to be part of this development and the designs fit with what we stand for; high-quality and sustainable homes in healthy and social environments.”
The first building to be delivered in phase 2, offering 56 apartments within the Nicoya sub-area, has been developed by the consortium and was designed by Paul de Ruiter Architects. It will be constructed by Ballast Nedam West.
The courtyard garden of Nicoya offers privacy and connects people and nature through thoughtfully designed walking paths and seating areas. Plants native to the area have been carefully chosen to provide residents with privacy and passers-by with a sense of relaxation. An underground car park, from which trees will grow, will be integrated into the courtyard. The green courtyard garden features a beautifully designed entrance and is connected to Cartesius Park. The green facades are common property to ensure everything is well maintained.
The CAB, designed by architect Mecanoo, will be the centrepiece of Cartesius in Utrecht and a symbol of its identity, with functions focused on healthy food, community, exercise, contemplation and relaxation. Functioning as the ‘living room’ of the district, the CAB aims to activate the environment so that it becomes an attractive meeting place for residents and visitors. The monumental substructure, in combination with the ultra-modern apartment building that will rise above it is set to become an internationally recognisable interplay.
Bart Meijer, CEO of MRP, said: "We are delighted to partner with CBRE Investment Management who share our vision to invest in the sustainable and healthy development of Cartesius in Utrecht. The apartment building on the CAB will be the real star of the show. Building in the existing city is an important role to keep the city current and the facilities intact. The transformation of the CAB shows respect for heritage and proves that densification of the city above existing monuments can be achieved."
