It Swettehûs, a circular bridge control centre in Leeuwarden, exemplifies how circular building practices can be embedded into critical infrastructure. Designed according to circular construction principles, the building minimises environmental impact through the use of recycled and bio-based materials, as well as energy-efficient systems.

Led by the Province of Fryslân through a top-down procurement strategy, the project brought together more than 100 organisations from the Circular Friesland Association, fostering a collaborative, network-driven approach to sourcing materials and expertise.

The design and construction process was shaped by the availability of materials, influencing planning, architecture, and building techniques. This adaptive and flexible method turned It Swettehûs into a real-time testing ground for innovative circular construction, reinforcing Fryslân’s commitment to experimentation and continuous learning.

Builders and designers responded dynamically to emerging challenges, developing and applying new solutions that moved beyond conventional construction practices.

The need for sustainable construction in public infrastructure is increasingly urgent, especially in areas where traditional buildings are resource-intensive, leading to high carbon footprints. The construction industry remains a major contributor to environmental degradation, with buildings consuming vast amounts of energy and materials, often generating significant waste.

The Province of Friesland undertook the construction of It Swettehûs, focusing on circular construction principles to ensure sustainability at every stage of the building’s lifecycle. The centre was designed with the aim to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact. Key features include the use of 44% reused materials and 12% biobased materials. Additionally, the building was equipped with energy-efficient systems that generate and store sufficient sustainable energy to cover both building and operational needs, including the electric vehicle and vessel fleet, along with one of the connected bridges. This approach to sustainable infrastructure is an innovative example of circular construction in public sector projects, demonstrating that eco-friendly, energy-efficient buildings can be achieved even in critical infrastructure.

The It Swettehûs project successfully integrates circular economy principles into the construction of public infrastructure. The building not only meets operational needs but also minimises its environmental footprint. It has achieved energy self-sufficiency, with a sustainable energy generation and storage system that supports both the building itself and connected infrastructure. By using a high percentage of recycled and biobased materials, the project significantly reduced resource consumption and waste generation. It Swettehûs has set a new benchmark for sustainable public buildings, with potential to inspire future projects in Friesland and beyond. Moreover, it contributes to enhancing the sustainability of waterway management operations.

It Swettehûs acts as a circular economy showcase for Fryslân, demonstrating how local governments and businesses can integrate circular principles into infrastructure projects.​

The project serves as an example for future circular procurement in the region, reinforcing Fryslân’s identity as a leader in circularity.

The It Swettehûs building reflects Friesland’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and the circular economy, aligning with the region's broader sustainability and water management goals. The project also exemplifies the Frisian approach to collaborative and community-driven solutions, with the construction process involving key stakeholders such as local government, architects, engineers, and sustainability experts. This collaborative effort not only delivered an environmentally friendly building but also promoted the idea of circular construction in the public sector, reinforcing the region’s circular transition. It Swettehûs serves as a practical case of how integrating circular economy principles can help build resilient, sustainable infrastructure for future generations.