LEIDEN, Netherlands — Herta Mohr is the result of a sustainable, circular renovation that respects and enhances the original design.

Commissioned by Leiden University, the architecture firm De Zwarte Hond completed the renovation and extension of the former Cluster Zuid building of the Faculty of Humanities. Architect Joop van Stigt designed Cluster Zuid for the Faculty of Humanities of Leiden University in the late 1970s. This impressive example of structuralist architecture was re-inaugurated on Oct. 8 as Herta Mohr. It now offers 11,400 square meters (122,700 square feet) of space, plus car parking, with more than 700 teaching spaces and self-study places, two lecture theatres, work and meeting rooms, and common rooms. The building also houses the libraries of Leiden’s African Studies Centre and the Middle Eastern Studies program.

During the redevelopment of this building, 72% more sustainable measures were implemented than were required by the building regulations. By selecting high-quality materials with low emissions of unhealthy substances throughout the building, Herta Mohr now has a BREEAM Excellent certification. Insulation, solar panels, and a heat/cold storage system were also added.

In addition, new, efficient installations were installed to meet the high sustainability requirements. However, the existing structure could not support these changes, so the second floor was removed and a completely new structure was built on top of the building. This intervention has combined the separate ‘houses’ into one whole, with the technical installations fully integrated.

The reuse of most of the original building and façade is a notable achievement. Concrete columns from the demolished central house were reused in the extension. Other materials were also given a new life. For example, the old Sequoia redwood ceiling panels were transformed into wall cladding in the atrium. These slats were carefully worked on, stripped of nails, and milled in collaboration with the social workshop BWRI. The specific pattern of the slats meant that everything could be prefabricated and installed, minimizing waste.

The renovation of the Cluster Zuid building complements and reinforces the existing design. The refurbished building reflects the spirit of Joop van Stigt as well as that of the present. By opting for renovation and sustainability, Herta Mohr has gained a new place in the collective memory of Leiden.

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