ZJA was the designer of the greenhouse of the Hortus in Amsterdam in 1993, and now also designed the updated, sustainable design. Both the design and the layout of the interior are by BOOM Landscape and Designwolf, while ABT is once again responsible for the construction.

Renewed and sustainable icon

The eye-catcher of the Amsterdam Hortus Botanicus was designed by ZJA in the early 1990s, as a contemporary construction of steel and glass.

It became a popular attraction for visitors and Amsterdam residents. Three decades later, the Three Climate Greenhouse is ready for a major renovation. An urgency that the Hortus uses to sustainably renew the greenhouse. It will be the first gas-free public greenhouse in the Netherlands. And also the only place where the importance of plant biodiversity and its relationship with climate is explained. With all sustainable adjustments, the preservation of the characteristic elements and an optimal living environment for the plant collection, the renovated Three-Climate Greenhouse of the Hortus will be completely ready for the future.

Kay Oosterman, architect and partner ZJA: 'The new design by ZJA visibly promotes sustainable innovation, while the silhouette of the greenhouse remains recognizable. The characteristic main load-bearing structure, so iconic for the Hortus, is retained. The distinctive rhythm and refinement of the existing frontage with its white lines recur in our new design, while its single glass is replaced by insulating double glazing and the roof is provided with lightweight insulating air cushions. Finally, the plants will benefit optimally from the renovation and the new climate-control systems.'

The story of biodiversity

Now that biodiversity is under so much pressure, telling the story of biodiversity is becoming increasingly important for the Hortus. 

Not only will the greenhouse have insulating roofs, double glazing, storage for reuse of (rain)water and smart, energy-efficient climate systems, the interior will also be overhauled.

In addition to a new subtropical space, the renovated tropical greenhouse section and desert section, there will also be additional exhibition space to explain the story of biodiversity and its relationship with climate on a global scale.