New office skyscraper announced for Utrecht city center with observation deck

Utrecht announced plans on Wednesday to construct a new skyscraper in the heart of the city. The 105-meter tower will feature larger office spaces, facilities for new startups, a first floor nightclub, a publicly accessible rooftop deck, and a restaurant on the top floor.

Construction on the building is expected to begin in 2025 on the Jaarbeursplein, close to the city's Central Station, and the Jaarbeurs convention center. The building was designed by London-based architecture firm Heatherwick Studio, Barcode Architects, and project developer Edge. It is expected to be completed in 2028.

Named Oopen, the building will "change the skyline of Utrecht," the city said. It will also include 3,200 bicycle parking spaces underground, as well as hospitality businesses, meeting spaces, an indoor climbing wall, and an urban skate park. The goal is that there is something happening in or around the building 24 hours a day.

"The unique design distinguishes itself in the Station area by its soft and round shapes, warm materials and green terraces. Due to the sustainable design choices, Oopen wants to become the first multifunctional carbon-neutral tower in the Netherlands," the city said.

Over 4,000 residents contributed ideas several years ago about what they wanted to see in a new building on the Jaarbeursplein, including the city's hometown Olympic skateboarder, Keet Oldenbeuving. Many respondents pushed for more nightlife options, and a building that truly felt it belonged to all residents.

"I am very proud of this design. The development of the Jaarbeursplein building has a long history and I am glad that we decided years ago to develop an iconic attraction at this location. A building by and for the city," said Spatial Planning Alderman Eelco Eerenberg.

"We are proud to be able to work on this striking multifunctional project to create a new destination in the Netherlands. Combining our local expertise and knowledge with our partners - Heatherwick Studio and BARCODE Architects, Utrecht will be established as a hub where design and innovation come together to provide a vibrant environment," said Edge CEO Coen van Oostrom in a statement.

"The result of our collaboration will be a building that promotes a healthy working environment, contributes to the growth of the region and is in line with Utrecht's vision of the future for healthy urban living."