Metamorfosis Water Purification Facility Haarlem Waarderpolder

Year 2023
Typology Building
Location Haarlem Waarderpolder, Nederland
Client Hoogheemraadschap Rijnland
Collaboration Witteveen + Bos, Arcadis, Royal Haskoning
Architects Syb van Breda, Ruud Burger, Wiola Gaura-Rutowicz, Roos Boerma

This is the Master Plan for the metamorphosis of the water treatment plant in Haarlem Waarderpolder. The treatment plant is more than fifty years old, its technical lifespan has been exceeded, further growth of its capacity is foreseen. Client HHR has decided to radically renovate the treatment plant, increase its capacity and take major steps towards making the treatment process more sustainable. HHR strives to reduce energy consumption through new techniques. This integrated plan also gives substance to the ambitions for improving biodiversity, integration into the landscape, preserving industrial heritage and the architectural quality of the new construction.

Reinforcement of the monumental character

Of the current treatment plant only the sediment treatment towers from the 1960s will remain. This monumental and symmetrical complex was recently renovated and is fit for use again. The unique solid cylindrical brick architecture renders the treatment plant a distinct architectural quality. It is the inspiration for the new Master Plan. The symmetry returns, but now with more respect for the environment, flora and fauna.

Birdview of the current situation
Birdview of the new Master Plan
© Hoogheemraadschap Rijnland

Structure of the grounds

The integral quality framework

The art of a good quality framework for purification lies in an optimal balance between solidity and flexibility. Given the utilitarian nature of the complex, flexibility in architectural forms and layout should be allowed. However, at the same time, it is crucial to maintain a well-coordinated master plan that HHR can work with in the long term. A plan that ensures all investments made in the purification process are executed logically and beautifully. For centuries, it has been proven that a well-designed aesthetic has a maximum lifespan and convinces users of the need to protect and improve it whenever possible.