CUBE is a compact and innovative workshop building of the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) on the University of Twente campus. It was designed by Civic Architects, VDNDP and Studio Groen+Schild, and built by WAM&VanDuren Bouwgroep and WSi Techniek.

Photography: Stijn Bollaert

The building is an extension of the Horst complex, featuring stacked workshops, offices and flexible practical teaching spaces. In CUBE, the work of ET becomes visible: students and researchers build machines, prototypes and new technologies here—within an environment that acts as a living exhibition of manufacturability and innovation.

Upon entering, you look out over the seven-meter-high, recessed metal and welding workshop, with views of the work zones above. The vertical layout keeps walking routes short, creates visual connections between floors, and maintains a compact footprint. A pyramid-shaped atrium brings daylight deep into the building and forms the connecting link between all layers. Large spans, steel trusses and three CLT cores enable flexible use. The structure is deliberately left exposed: an honest, technical statement befitting the faculty.

The interior is sustainable and robust: what you see is what you get. Materials are applied in a pure and honest way—steel, wood and concrete in their natural form. The exposed structure, CLT walls and installations give the interior a clear and technical character, while wooden accents and acoustic panels made of recycled felt add warmth and comfort. In this way, CUBE forms an inspiring, functional environment that seamlessly aligns with the identity of Engineering Technology.

CUBE design team: Civic Architects, VDNDP, Studio Groen+Schild, Nelissen engineering consultancy, Schreuders construction consultancy and Buro Loo.

Projectteam Studio Groen+Schild:
Ellen Schild, Thijs Bongers