Research and Diagnostics Center ADORE, Amsterdam UMC
The world’s largest onco-neuro campus
ADORE provides a workspace for over 2,000 researchers collaborating across oncology and neuroscience. By breaking traditional boundaries, they aim to discover innovative treatments. According to ADORE, the project unites world-class researchers, offers access to cutting-edge equipment, and establishes the largest onco-neuro campus globally, complete with labs and office spaces. The building features a combination of laboratories and offices on each floor, offering adaptable layouts to meet diverse needs.
At the core of the building, a four-story glass-covered courtyard serves as a hub for light, air, and interaction. A striking spiral staircase, contrasting with the building's linear design, connects the upper levels. Adjacent to the courtyard, a flexible conference hall adapts to varying group sizes.
Groundbreaking research in a sustainable building
The new Research and Diagnostics Center ADORE brings oncologists and neurologists together under one roof to develop groundbreaking treatments for cancer and neurological diseases, a unique concept in Europe. The 23,000 m² facility, located at the heart of the VU campus next to the Zuidas Botanical Garden, houses public amenities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and offices. It is part of a larger plan to expand the Vrije Universiteit's medical center.
RDC ADORE unites oncologists and neurologists under one roof to drive groundbreaking research
Facades that respond to the environment
Connected to the adjacent Imaging Center by a glass atrium designed by Studio Hartzema, the building fosters collaboration. The exterior features sand-colored, glass-fiber-reinforced concrete facades facing the street and botanical garden, offering a robust yet open appearance. Side facades incorporate a mix of concrete and pearl-gray aluminum, creating a more private, interior-focused atmosphere. Inside, a palette of natural tones and wood ensures a calm, welcoming environment.
Amsterdam UMC’s first building with thermal energy storage
ADORE is the first Amsterdam UMC building to utilize a geothermal energy storage system for heating and cooling. The basement houses specialized research spaces, a logistics corridor, and the energy system. The roof is equipped with solar panels and rainwater storage, while the lightweight facades minimize the building’s carbon footprint.
For the first time in the Netherlands, low-carbon glass was used in the facade, reducing CO2 emissions by 40%. The innovative glass incorporates recycled shards, making the building 25% more sustainable than current new-build standards.
Client
Amsterdam UMC (Universitair Medisch Centrum)
Location
Van der Boechorststraat, Amsterdam
Surface
22.820 m²
Year
2012–2024
Project Status
Delivered
Design
with atelier PRO, while part of their team
Contractor
MedicomZes
Structural Engineer
Zonneveld ingenieurs
Building Physics Consultant
Peutz
Installation Consultant
Royal HaskoningDHV
Photography
Mădălina Băghiceanu
