Construction of sustainable timber homes in Benedenerf, Nijmegen-Noord, has started
News item, Area and Property Development
On Friday 4 September 2026, future residents celebrated the start of construction of their new neighbourhood, Benedenerf, in Nijmegen-Noord. Benedenerf consists of 19 sustainable homes made of wood and other natural, so-called bio-based materials, situated around a green courtyard in the middle of Nijmegen’s lush riverine landscape. Benedenerf combines the tranquillity of the countryside with the proximity of the city, offering residents a unique living environment between the Spiegelwaal, Fort Beneden Lent and the city centre of Nijmegen.
“Benedenerf shows the diversity of De Waalhoven well,” says Hans Bonekamp on behalf of the management of VOF De Waalhoven. “Within the area, we are creating various living environments, each with its own character. The start of construction marks another great step forward in the further development of De Waalhoven.”
Design with an eye for landscape and social interaction
Benedenerf was designed by MIX Architectuur and commissioned by Ontwikkelcombinatie De Waalhoven VOF, a partnership between BPD | Bouwfonds Gebiedsontwikkeling and area developer VanWonen. The design is inspired by the site’s agricultural past. The homes evoke the farms and barns traditionally found on farmsteads, translated into a contemporary architectural style.
The layout of the plan stimulates social interaction between residents. The communal courtyard forms the heart of the neighbourhood, while large windows open the homes up to the surrounding landscape.
Giesbers is building the homes
The homes are being built by Giesbers Ontwikkelen en Bouwen. By utilising modern timber construction, prefabrication techniques and natural materials, Giesbers contributes significantly to Benedenerf’s sustainability ambitions. The construction partner brings extensive experience in delivering innovative and future-proof residential projects. Choosing timber construction reduces CO₂ emissions and creates comfortable homes with a warm appearance. On the inside as well, the character of the wood remains visible. This not only creates a pleasant atmosphere, but also contributes to a healthy indoor climate. In addition, many components of the homes are prefabricated, allowing for efficient construction and custom solutions tailored to the residents’ preferences.
John de Beijer, Giesbers Ontwikkelen en Bouwen: “Timber homes contribute to a healthy and comfortable living environment. In Benedenerf, we combine our knowledge of timber construction with custom design to build homes that truly fit the residents’ needs. Together with De Waalhoven, we’re making sustainable, future-proof living a reality.”
Living in a green oasis
The homes in Benedenerf are situated in the riverine landscape, which means the residents can enjoy serenity, expansive views, and nature right on their doorstep. The existing orchard will be preserved and gets an important role within the plan. Shared green spaces, where the residents can meet, will be created around the homes, while each home also features its own outdoor space overlooking the landscape.
The neighbourhood forms a green transition between the historic inner city of Nijmegen and the new residential areas on the north side of the river Waal. Benedenerf thus offers the best of both worlds: living in a green environment with all city amenities close by.
De Waalhoven
De Waalhoven is being developed in Nijmegen-Noord in a unique location along the river Waal. The area development combines the landscape’s historic roots with modern residential standards. The neighbourhood is designed to be green, sustainable and community-oriented, with a strong focus on climate adaptation, biodiversity and social connection. There are still homes for sale in the area adjacent to Benedenerf.
More information about Benedenerf: www.nieuwbouw-dewaalhoven.nl/benedenerf.
