Soon, the former ABN AMRO building in the Hart van Zuid development area, will be transformed into a large street art work, under the direction of Rotterdam street art artist Naomi King. This location, which currently houses various companies, will eventually be transformed by Heijmans into a residential tower. Until then, it will remain a creative meeting place, with, among others, the Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab Rotterdam, an initiative of Inholland University of Applied Sciences. The last five years, this lab has been conducting research into the transformation of the area and the involvement of residents.
During a participation event on October 9th, organized by Heijmans, Naomi King presented three sketches that local residents could choose from. The colorful design Mi Lobi Zuid was chosen. This design, which shows the faces of the people from Zuid, symbolizes the love and commitment they feel for their neighborhood.
On the site of the former ABN AMRO office at Zuidplein 54, a residential building with rental and purchase apartments will be built, mainly aimed at students and housing starters. Construction is expected to start in mid-2026. Until the building is demolished, the artwork will remain a colorful asset to the area. From next Monday, October 28, 2024, we are calling on the entire neighborhood to put on their painting clothes and lend a hand. Together with local residents, travelers, entrepreneurs and students, this artwork will be realized.
The project started as a graduation project by Joris Sauerbier, made possible by financing from Rabobank. Commissioned by the Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab, he conducted research into improving the sense of safety, especially for women around Zuidplein. This led to the concept ‘Kleur op Zuid’, which uses color, greenery and lighting to make public space more attractive and safer.
The project shows how art and urban development can contribute to a better living environment. It is co-facilitated by Inholland University of Applied Sciences, Rabobank and Heijmans.
Follow the progress via our Instagram account!