In Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, a unique architectural structure is challenging conventional building methods. Bouwurk, a modular community space, demonstrates how local waste and biobased materials can form the foundation for sustainable design. Built for Arcadia 2025, a cultural triennial across Friesland, the pavilion highlights the creative potential of reused resources. Designer Overtreders W partnered with local makers, companies, and volunteers to bring the project to life. Rather than using new materials, the team sourced everything from the region—proving that thoughtful design can turn waste into high-value components.

Designed for Reuse and Zero Waste

Bouwurk is not a one-time installation. The municipality of Leeuwarden will reuse the structure after the festival, extending its lifecycle and avoiding demolition waste. Its modular design makes this transition simple. Each part was selected or crafted with reuse in mind. By doing so, the team reduced environmental impact and promoted a circular approach to construction.

Turning Local Waste into Construction Value

Throughout the region, the team found valuable resources that others had discarded. They used scrap wood and defective glass to form the structure. Even old hot air balloons found new purpose as architectural elements. Designers turned Frisian wool into insulation, shaped local clay into panels, and processed wet-farmed crops into cladding. These materials didn’t just perform well—they told a story about local identity and ecological care.

Sea Silt as a Sustainable Ceramic Ingredient

One standout innovation is the use of sea silt from the Wadden Sea. Rather than mining clay, the team tapped into this abundant local sediment. The Sea Silt Ceramic consortium, which includes Humade and Koninklijke Tichelaar, developed the process. Their goal is ambitious: replace up to 90 per cent of clay in ceramic tiles with silt. This change reduces reliance on a finite resource while offering a new aesthetic rooted in place.

Building Through Collaboration

A strong network made Bouwurk possible. Three contractors—Friso, Lont, and Dijkstra Draisma—collaborated to build smarter and faster. Social enterprise Empatec crafted furniture from miscanthus, based on designs by Friso Wiersma. At the same time, Pleed collected regional wool, which was then used for insulation. These partnerships made the project both socially inclusive and technically innovative.

Inspiring Designers to Rethink Materials

Bouwurk speaks directly to architects, interior and landscape designers, and product developers. It shows that circular design is practical, beautiful, and scalable. By using local materials and working together, the team delivered a structure that feels both modern and rooted in place. Designers from every discipline can find inspiration in this approach.

Arcadia 2025: Creativity in Context

Arcadia 2025 runs daily until 24 August 2025. Its programme includes art installations, theatre, music, and public workshops. International artists like Gabriel Chaile and Peng Zhang contribute to the event. As the festival’s centrepiece, Bouwurk serves as a living example of sustainable design, regional pride, and creative collaboration.

Source: Arcadia / bouwurk.frl
Photos: Lucas Kemper