Heritage Meets Innovation as University of Groningen Unveils Bladergroen Building for UCG’s Future Campus

Hans Biemans (Board of trhe University) and Joke Fleer (UCG) have just unveiled the new name.

(IN BRIEF) The University of Groningen has named its future University College Groningen headquarters the Bladergroen Building, honoring pioneering child psychologist Wilhelmina Bladergroen. Located at Bloemsingel 1, the building combines the restoration of a 1911 monument with sustainable new construction designed by Elephant / Taller and built by Hegeman B.V.. Scheduled for completion in mid-2027, the 4,800 m² facility will host 400 staff and students and serve as a hub for interdisciplinary education. Equipped with solar panels, heat pumps, and energy-efficient systems, the project exemplifies both heritage preservation and environmental responsibility within the Healthy Ageing Campus development.

(PRESS RELEASE) GRONINGEN, 5-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The University of Groningen has officially unveiled the name of the future home of University College Groningen (UCG) — the Bladergroen Building — marking a key milestone in the renovation and expansion of the historic site at Bloemsingel 1. The project, led by contractor Hegeman B.V. from Nijverdal and designed by architecture firm Elephant / Taller, combines heritage restoration with cutting-edge sustainability. Once complete in mid-2027, the building will welcome around 400 staff and students to a modern and inspiring academic environment.

Portrait of Wilhelmina Bladergroen

The new Bladergroen Building takes its name from Wilhelmina Bladergroen (1908–1983), a pioneering figure in child psychology and education. Bladergroen was the first female professor of orthopedagogy in Groningen and an advocate for children’s learning and development. During World War II, she risked her life to help hide Jewish children, later contributing to post-war education reform by founding LOM schools and an institute for remedial teaching. Her lifelong dedication to inclusive education and child welfare resonates deeply with UCG’s mission to nurture creativity, empathy, and collaboration in tackling global challenges.

Bladergroen Building as seen from the campus square.

A fusion of heritage and innovation
The 1911 monument, originally designed by government architect J.A.W. Vrijman (1865–1954), is undergoing a comprehensive restoration to return it to its original architectural quality. The façade, gardens, and fencing will regain their historical character, while modern upgrades will ensure the building meets high environmental and accessibility standards. A new wooden and glass extension is now under construction on the north side, connecting the historic building with the gardens and the Healthy Ageing Campus.

The redesigned layout includes a new main entrance on the campus square, a central meeting area on the ground floor, study spaces on upper floors, and a rooftop terrace. A striking lightwell at the heart of the building will visually and functionally link the old and new sections. The entire complex will cover approximately 4,800 m² of floor space, offering flexible study and project rooms that support modern learning approaches.

Commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is integral to the redevelopment. The Bladergroen Building will feature enhanced insulation, solar panels, thermal energy storage, heat pumps, and CO₂-controlled ventilation systems, alongside energy-efficient LED lighting and sun shading. The design ensures that the structure minimizes its environmental footprint while promoting comfort and functionality for students and staff alike.

First floor of the new construction.

A new chapter for University College Groningen
Since its founding in 2014, UCG has become known for its interdisciplinary bachelor’s program, where students craft personalized curricula combining science, social studies, and humanities. The move to the Bladergroen Building will provide UCG with a permanent home aligned with its educational philosophy — small-scale, international, and collaborative.

Dean Joke Fleer expressed enthusiasm about the move: “The Bladergroen Building allows us to provide small-scale, innovative education, exactly as our students and faculty envision. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this beautiful, future-oriented location.”

The Bladergroen Building will be part of the Healthy Ageing Campus, developed in partnership with UMCG, the Municipality of Groningen, and landscape architects, creating a vibrant and sustainable urban district designed to foster innovation and community well-being.

Design and Construction Team

The building is being realized by:

Media Contact:

email: communicatie@rug.nl

SOURCE: University of Groningen