Wonderwoods in Utrecht,
designed by Boeri Studio
Contemporary architecture is increasingly reaching for solutions that integrate nature with urban space, reflecting the growing ecological awareness and needs of city dwellers. Green buildings, although they were a novelty a dozen years ago, are today becoming an important element of urban planning. One architect who has significantly influenced the popularization of this trend is Stefano Boeri, the creator of Bosco Verticale - two residential high-rise buildings in Milan's Porta Nuova district. Their facades, almost entirely covered with vegetation, revolutionized the approach to urban design. Nearly a decade after that project, Wonderwoods, another example of the advanced symbiosis of architecture and nature, was built in the heart of Utrecht. The building, designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti in collaboration with MVSA Architects, is part of a plan to revitalize the Beurskwartier district, which is being transformed into a pedestrian-friendly space located adjacent to the main train station.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - the project is part of the revitalization plan for the Beurskwartier district
Photo by Milan Hofmans © Stefano Boeri Architetti
A green revolution on the map of Utrecht
Wonderwoods was erected on an irregular plot of land with a trapezoidal outline. The 104-meter-high tower combines various functions: residential, office and public, and its facade is overgrown with a dense layer of vegetation. The structure is based on a system of superimposed panels that gradually rotate around a vertical axis, creating a dynamic form. This arrangement allows the massing to evolve seamlessly - from conforming to the Croeselaan street grid to an east-west orientation. The northern corner of the tower acts as a kind of "prow," marking the direction of the urban axis of the quarter, while the southern part was designed to merge with the neighboring building at the level of the seventh floor, creating a coherent complex.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - the building was erected on an irregular plot with a trapezoidal outline
© Stefano Boeri Architetti
a city on many levels
The building's functionality is spread over different levels. The first floor is dedicated to bicycle parking and public areas that encourage social interaction. The upper floors house offices, fitness spaces and two-story apartments. A special role is played by the seventh floor, which acts as a link between the two parts of the complex. It houses restaurants and dining spaces - both indoor and outdoor - surrounded by rooftop gardens. These green terraces offer residents and visitors panoramic views of Utrecht, integrating the building into the cityscape.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - building diagram
© Stefano Boeri Architetti
A forest in the heart of the city
Integration of vegetation with architecture is the foundation of the project, carried out in collaboration with Laura Gatti studio at all stages - from the architectural competition to the final construction. The green facade was inspired by the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park, creating a locally rooted ecosystem. Wonderwoods' facades were planted with 360 trees and 50,000 plants belonging to 30 native species.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - street side view
Photo by Milan Hofmans © Stefano Boeri Architetti
This scale of greening is equivalent to the area of one hectare of forest, making the building an important contribution to improving the quality of life in the city. The vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide and particulate matter, produces oxygen, and helps regulate the microclimate, mitigating the effects of urban heat islands.
360 trees and 50,000 plants belonging to 30 native species have been planted on the facades of Wonderwoods
Photo by Milan Hofmans © Stefano Boeri Architetti
architecture in service of the ecosystem
The building also supports urban fauna, with a special focus on birds. Circular openings, designed as nesting and shelter areas, are arranged on the facade. These details enhance local biodiversity, making Wonderwoods not only an architectural object, but also an ecological one. The technical aspects of the project are also noteworthy.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - project sketch
sketch: Daniele Barillari © Stefano Boeri Architetti
Prefabricated blocks with pots hidden beneath the surface of the balconies allow the interiors to blend harmoniously with the surroundings. The terraces and balconies are designed to maximize access to natural light and open up views of the city, while maintaining the visual integrity of the facades. As a result, residents can enjoy proximity to nature without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.
Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - balconies are designed to maximize access to natural light and open up views of the city
photo by Milan Hofmans © Stefano Boeri Architetti
the green pulse of the metropolis
Wonderwoods is more than a building - it is a living ecosystem that changes with the seasons, sunlight and plant growth. Its facades evolve, presenting different colors and structures depending on the external conditions. Such dynamism makes the building an active part of Utrecht's landscape, interacting with the urban surroundings and local nature. This project demonstrates how architecture can support both the needs of people and the ecosystem, creating a space that is functional, sustainable and integrated with nature.
The Wonderwoods green skyscraper in Utrecht, the Netherlands - a close-up view of the building's facade
photo by Milan Hofmans © Stefano Boeri Architetti
sustainable tomorrow begins today
The realization of Wonderwoods is part of a broader context of changes in urban planning, where the creation of more livable and environmentally friendly cities is becoming a priority. The building not only responds to today's environmental challenges, but also sets the stage for future developments. With a combination of innovative technical solutions, attention to detail and a deep understanding of the local context, Wonderwoods is an example of how architecture can coexist with nature, benefiting both residents and the city as a whole.
Compiled by Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Boeri Studio.
