Vief kwartier
In the south-east of the city of Groningen, vector-i, in collaboration with the Danish architectural practice EFFEKT and FELIXX landscape architects, is transforming the site of the former power station into Vief Kwartier. The mixed-use development (±65,000 m²) explores the possibilities of circular architecture and timber construction.
Whilst the site of the old Hunze power station – popularly known as the ‘vief piepen’ – supplied the city with energy for decades, the area has been in a state of neglect since its demolition. Currently used as a car park, it no longer fits in with the vibrant atmosphere of the Europapark.
Due to this temporary layout and the lack of cohesion, the quality of life in this area has fallen far short of the site’s potential. This plan, situated at a strategic location on Boumaboulevard, will strengthen the link between Europapark and the city centre. The ambitious plan ensures that the human scale is preserved within a large-scale, healthy and car-free living environment.
Working in close collaboration with the local council and ABC Vastgoed, we have designed a district where the past and the future converge. The transformation begins at the very foundations; the more than 5,000 existing concrete foundation piles from the old power station are being reused to store CO₂ underground. Above them, an innovative, lightweight, hybrid timber structure is taking shape, which has the potential to become one of Europe’s largest timber construction projects.
The plan provides space for around 350 homes and vibrant amenities, spread across buildings with terraced gardens. An urban, green heart connects the site directly to Europapark and the city centre via pocket parks and walking and cycling routes.
The result is an architectural and ecological statement: an open, healthy and green neighbourhood. Whereas fossil fuels were once used here, the new Vief Kwartier will soon be generating renewable energy instead. In this way, the plan demonstrates that large-scale urban regeneration can be environmentally friendly.
Client ABC Vastgoed
Landscape architect Felix Landscape Architects & Planners
Cooperating architect EFFEKT Arkitekter
Location Groningen, Nederland
Year 2026