Opening of the New "De Koopgoot" Bike Parking with a Unique Design in Rotterdam

A new and innovative bike parking facility opened on 16 October 2024, in the former V&D building, near the Koopgoot in Rotterdam. The facility stands out not only in functionality but also through its innovative use of rounded shapes and a HeartFelt® Linear felt ceiling finish. It will be the first bicycle parking facility in Rotterdam to feature a finished ceiling, providing cyclists with a unique experience where comfort and design go hand in hand. Hunter Douglas Architectural proudly contributed to this project.

Innovative Design with Rounded Shapes

What makes this bike parking facility unique is its design, which centers on curved forms. The architect for the Municipality of Rotterdam specifically requested rounded transitions for the ceiling height differences. Since this solution did not yet exist, a method was developed in collaboration with the Design and R&D teams of Hunter Douglas Architectural to make it possible. The curves in the facility are finished with sustainable HeartFelt® Linear panels.

This felt provides excellent acoustic properties and ensures a serene, calming atmosphere within the bicycle parking facility. The application of these rounded shapes is not only visually appealing but also helps to dampen sound and create a pleasant acoustic environment for all visitors.

Furthermore, the use of the recyclable felt emphasizes Hunter Douglas’s sustainable ambitions. This material meets the highest standards in terms of acoustics and aesthetics and can be easily reused, perfectly aligning with the sustainable vision of the Municipality of Rotterdam.

Sustainable Mobility and Car-Free City Center

The opening of this modern bike parking facility aligns with the Municipality of Rotterdam’s ambition to make the city center more attractive and car-free. By expanding the infrastructure for cyclists, the municipality aims to promote cycling as the transportation mode of the future. The strategic location of the facility, right in the city center, encourages residents and visitors to cycle more often when coming to the city.