Three Dutch Ministries Move to a Contemporary Green Oasis

Studio PROTOTYPE and ZENBER Architecten recently completed the refurbishment of Rijkskantoor B73 in The Hague, the Netherlands. Originally designed by Gijsbert Friedhoff and expanded by Dam & Partners in 2012, this monumental building now houses three key ministries for the country’s environmental and economic policies: the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Safety, and Nature; the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth; and the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

The primary aim of the project was to modernize and improve the flexibility of the interiors while creating a sustainable, dynamic, and efficient working environment.

The Orangerie: The green heart of the complex

At the heart of the project is the Orangerie, which forms the green lung of the entire complex. Inside it, two existing pavilions and their surrounding areas were transformed into meeting spaces immersed in greenery, intended to encourage exchange, dialogue, and collaboration.

With vertical gardens and green walls, the Orangerie improves air quality, reduces CO₂ emissions, and helps reduce cooling costs, while creating a restorative atmosphere for building users.

Focusing on sustainability and well-being

Sustainability informed every design decision, not just aesthetics or comfort, with the project integrating biophilic design principles and following the WELL Building Standard.

Notably, two brainstorm pods, built entirely from bio-based and renewable materials, function as experimental labs for testing innovative, sustainable materials and systems. These flexible spaces support creativity and teamwork while serving as showcases for a responsible architectural design approach.

A new model for government buildings

The transformation of Rijkskantoor B73 demonstrates how functionality, innovation, and environmental stewardship can coexist in major public buildings. The Orangerie and the new interior spaces are both an investment in employee well-being and a tangible statement of the Netherlands’ commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

>>> Discover Ruby, a green corner of the Big Apple designed by COOKFOX Architects