About Rau
RAU Architects: Designing Sustainable Buildings with a Circular Approach
RAU Architects is a leading architectural firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The company has been at the forefront of sustainable architecture for over two decades, designing buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. RAU Architects' philosophy is centered around circularity, which means designing buildings that are regenerative and restorative to the environment.
The company was founded in 1992 by Thomas Rau and has since grown into one of the most respected architectural firms in Europe. RAU Architects' portfolio includes a wide range of projects, from residential homes to commercial buildings and public spaces. The company's approach to design is holistic, taking into account not just the building itself but also its impact on the surrounding environment.
One of RAU Architects' core values is sustainability. The company believes that architecture should be responsible for reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources. To achieve this goal, RAU Architects uses innovative technologies such as solar panels, geothermal heating systems, and rainwater harvesting systems in their designs.
Another key aspect of RAU Architect's work is circularity. This means designing buildings that can be disassembled and reused at the end of their lifecycle instead of being demolished or discarded as waste. By adopting this approach, RAU Architects aims to reduce waste generation while promoting resource efficiency.
RAU Architect's commitment to sustainability has earned them numerous awards over the years. In 2018 alone, they won three prestigious awards: BREEAM Award for Most Sustainable Office Building (for EDGE Olympic), Dutch Daylight Award (for Triodos Bank), and German Design Award (for Park Hoog Oostduin).
One notable project by RAU Architects is Park 20|20 in Amsterdam's Schiphol Trade Park area - an innovative business park designed with circular principles at its core. The park features several office buildings made from recycled materials, a green roof that provides insulation and reduces stormwater runoff, and an on-site wastewater treatment plant that recycles water for irrigation.
RAU Architects' commitment to sustainability extends beyond their design work. The company's office in Amsterdam is itself a model of sustainable architecture, featuring solar panels, a green roof, and an energy-efficient heating system. RAU Architects also participates in various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable architecture globally.
In conclusion, RAU Architects is a leading architectural firm that has made sustainability and circularity the core of its philosophy. Their innovative designs have earned them numerous awards and recognition from the industry. With their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources, RAU Architects is setting an example for other architectural firms to follow.