
Carbon Stories : Architects Taking Sustainable Initiatives
The transition to a sustainable Dutch construction sector is gaining momentum and architects are playing a central role. The most impactful projects embed sustainability from the very beginning, setting a new standard for futureproof design. In this edition, architects Joost Verbeek (architecten|en|en), Tim Kouthoofd (Bygg Architecture & Design), and Oresti Sarafopoulos and John Bosch (OZ Architects) join the conversation. Together, they will share insights from two groundbreaking projects that are redefining sustainable architecture in the Netherlands. Register and join the conversation!
Salix – A biobased and cooperative residential tower in Eindhoven designed by architecten|en|en and Bygg Architecture & Design, currently in final design phase. This project explores new models of vertical living, integrating a CLT structure with load-bearing straw facades, proposing a radical yet elegant solution for low-impact urban housing.
Our New Office – A low-tech and biobased office in Amsterdam designed by OZ, also in final design phase. This office design brings the 2226 principles of Baumschlager Eberle into the Dutch context, aiming for energy efficiency through passive design strategies without compromising architectural expression.
Join us for an evening of inspiration and insight, as we explore how today’s architects are shaping the sustainable cities of tomorrow.
PRACTICAL INFO
Carbon Stories : Architects taking sustainable initiatives
Date: Thursday 25 September 2025, 19:30-21:30
Location: Keilepand Rotterdam
Language: English
Moderator: Geert Maarse
Carbon Stories is a collaboration between GROUP A | CARBONLAB, International Architecture Biennale Rotterdam, KeileCollectief and Klimaat Academie Rotterdam.
BIO

Joost Verbeek
Architect & Partner at architecten|en|en
Joost Verbeek is an architect and partner at architecten|en|en, an architecture and engineering practice in Eindhoven, at the heart of Brainport. His work focuses on living environments, from the transformation of existing buildings to the development of new, sustainable communities. “Designing the world of tomorrow” reflects his exploration of climate-positive architecture, guided by the question of how sustainability can be not only necessary, but also appealing and attainable. He aims to integrate biobased, circular, and nature-inclusive principles as a foundation for resilient and inclusive places to live.

Tim Kouthoofd
Architect & Partner at Bygg Architecture & Design
Tim studied Architecture at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). During and after his studies, he worked as a designer and researcher at BouwhulpGroep, gaining hands-on experience with resolving issues in existing housing and the impact those have on residents’ health and comfort of living.
As an architect and founder of Bygg (est. 2010), he has always placed the user at the heart of his work. Bygg brings together architecture, public space, and social design, resulting in a wide scope of projects with a strong focus on sustainability, biobased and circular solutions, and participatory design with users and stakeholders.

Oresti Sarafopoulos
Architect & Partner at OZ
Als architect, wandelend door steden, ervaar ik dat het steeds drukker en warmer wordt. Door gebouwen duurzamer en haalbaarder te maken, realiseerde ik me dat vertrouwen in technische installaties averechts werkt. Ik maak het verschil met een natuurlijke eenvoud zoals ONO, door mechanische installaties radicaal te reduceren en gebouwen menselijker te maken en meer in contact te brengen met de natuur.
OZ is een internationaal architectenbureau met meer dan 35 jaar ervaring. We zijn trots op ons vakmanschap en werken vanuit een onderzoekende, nuchtere houding. Zonder vooropgezette ideeën creëren we eigentijdse architectuur die de complexiteit van het leven omarmt en de omgeving verrijkt.

John Bosch
Architect & Partner at OZ
The city is in constant transformation. The Amsterdam I grew up in was a different city in every way than it is today. How do we shape these forces into new spatial opportunities? How do we reduce the ecological footprint of our buildings? As architects we should be in the center of these debates, using our skills in architecture, urbanism, landscape in innovative ideas. We must create concepts and typologies unique in time and place. Context to me, is everything.
OZ is an international architecture practice with more than 35 years’ experience. We take pride in our craftsmanship and work from an investigative down-to-earth-attitude. Without preconceived ideas create modern architecture that embraces the complexity of life and enriches its environment.