Moreelsepark Utrecht
Right next to Utrecht Central Station, at the edge of the park, Moreelsepark 1 shines like never before. This monumental office building from 1871 – originally built as the Administration Building of the State Railways – has undergone an extensive renovation and sustainability upgrade, led by EGM architects. In close collaboration with owner a.s.r. real estate and contractor J.P. van Eesteren, the listed building has been transformed into a future-proof and welcoming workplace that honours its history.
Past and future go hand in hand
After renovation, Moreelsepark 1 was renamed the contemporary ‘MP01’. With a rich history, the building has seen continuous changes over the years. Various major and minor alterations left their mark –sometimes at the expense of the original character. The current renovation returns to the authentic architecture of Kamperdijk and Vermeijs, restoring lost details with fine craftsmanship. Where previous changes didn’t always do justice to the building’s unique value, the recent restoration pays tribute to both craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Concept
Original qualities restored and enhanced by removal, repair, opening up and reconfiguration
1960
Het pand is in de loop der jaren dichtgeslibd
2023
Ruimtelijke en historische kwaliteiten zijn verloren
2025
Originele kwaliteiten hersteld en versterkt door verwijderen, herstellen, openbreken en herindelen
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With the renovation of Moreelsepark, We are taking an iMportant step toWards a Co2-neUtral property portfolio by 2045
ASR Dutch Mobility Office Fund
Sustainability as a foundation
MP01 is a textbook example of sustainable renovation. Its upgrade supports a.s.r. real estate’s ambition to achieve a fully Paris Proof, CO2-neutral real estate portfolio by 2045. The building’s energy performance and comfort have been significantly improved, while
preserving its historical details. The exterior walls were insulated on the inside with an airtight layer and fitted with custom-made windows. The detailing of these new windows was based on historical colour research and old photographs, not only preserving but enhancing the
building’s classic features. These measures, along with energy-efficient lighting and updated installations, ensure that the basement, ground floor and first floor meet Paris Proof standards. The rest of the building will follow in a later phase.
Nieuw toegevoegde tijdlaag Souterrain
Craftsmanship and respect for heritage
The exterior renovation showcases quality craftsmanship down to the smallest detail. Thanks to architectural and artisanal solutions, the original wooden sash windows – once replaced by aluminium ones – have been reinstated. Local workshops produced profiled trims, windowsills and frames in the original style. This has restored the authentic look from the outside as well as the atmosphere inside. The French balcony doors have also been brought back, and the new sun blinds have been seamlessly integrated into the frames.
Section
The interior also reflects craftsmanship. A new basement staircase – a contemporary, modern ‘furniture piece’ made of bamboo – connects the original monumental staircases to the now directly accessible basement. Here, three new voids have been added, increasing space and allowing daylight to reach deep into the basement, where new cosy meeting rooms and lounges have been created. This area was formerly used only for technical equipment and storage..
Friendly and welcoming
facilities in the basement. The coffee and lunch café is open to both tenants and external visitors, making it a lively meeting spot. Before
The high quality of MP01 is tangible throughout. That includes the offices on the ground and first floors, as well as the comfortable meeting and collaboration areas, the meeting centre and the modern hospitality
After
A vibrant future for a living monument
The renovation proves that heritage and sustainability can go hand in hand. Every detail has been executed with skill, respect, and a clear vision for the future. The building’s history is both visible and tangible — now housed in a space fully prepared for a sustainable and vibrant future. MP01 brings the past and future of Utrecht together in a unique way, creating an open, friendly and inspiring place to work.
Facts and numbers
Client
ASR Dutch Mobility Office Fund, Utrecht
Architect
EGM architects, Dordrecht
Interieurarchitect
EGM interiors, Dordrecht
Process management
Giesen Vastgoed & Advies, Amersfoort
Structural engineer
Sweco, Utrecht
Acoustic/building physics consultant
DGMR, Den Haag
Sustainability and BREEAM consultant
Boersema Installatie Adviseurs, Amersfoort
General contractor
J.P. van Eesteren | TBI, Gouda
Onderaannemer main staircase
EeStairs, Barneveld
Interior fit-out subcontractor
Van Vliet Interieurmakers, Barneveld
External windows subcontractor
Houtindustrie Amersfoort, Amersfoort
Mechanical and Electro technical systems
Kuijpers, Helmond
Lighting plan and luminaires lower ground floor
DeltaLight, Amsterdam
Size 4,400 m² gfa
Design period 2022 - 2024
Year of completion 2025
Photography Stijn Poelstra
