With urbanization on the rise, Utrecht needs more and more living space. At the same time, the city has a reputation to uphold as a place where healthy urban living is paramount. So, the city authorities began their search for an innovative solution for the station area, where Utrecht citizens will soon be able to live, work and relax in a green, sustainable and central location. Arcadis was involved in the design phase of this challenging Utrecht project and worked closely with architects during the planning phase.

The answer for this attractive location on the Jaarbeurs Boulevard was found in the ambitious and unique Wonderwoods concept. This special construction consists of two 70- and 90-meter-tall residential towers, which together provide around 400 homes for sale and rent. A further 27,000 square meters is reserved for other facilities, including Playlab (an interactive sensory experience for the public), offices, healthy restaurants, gym facilities, yoga studios, small shops and educational establishments.

The towers in the Healthy Urban Quarter are connected via a walkway. The highest tower is designed to resemble a vertical forest, with balconies and facades planted with local tree species and shrubs. This forward-thinking residential tower design integrates nature directly into the urban fabric, demonstrating how vertical living can support sustainability and well-being.