UCG’s new building begins construction – Help us name it

We're thrilled to announce that the first phase of constructing the new University College Groningen (UCG) building is underway! The transformation has begun with the demolition of parts of the old structure at Bloemsingel 1 in Groningen, paving the way for UCG’s future permanent home, set for completion by the end of 2026.

This monumental project, crafted by the renowned Amsterdam architectural team Elephant / Taller, will breathe new life into the former Physiology building. The renovation will preserve the building's classical facades and green gardens while incorporating a stunning new addition on the north side. This new structure, with its light and open wooden design and expansive glass facades, will seamlessly connect the old with the new and link the building to the vibrant new campus square, inviting the outside world in. Inspired by the original vision of J.A.W. Vrijman, the former Government Architect famed for designing the University of Groningen's Academy Building, this project promises to honour the past while looking to the future.

Health Ageing Campus

The new building is an integral part of the Healthy Ageing Campus, a visionary area where the University of Groningen (UG), the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), and the Municipality have collaborated with landscape architects on a dynamic development plan. Over the next few years, this area will be gradually transformed into a new piece of the city center, featuring a recognizable, inviting, and welcoming entrance.

Help Us Name Our New Home

With the project now underway, University College Groningen is excited to announce that we are searching for a name for our new building, and we invite the entire University of Groningen community to contribute their ideas. This is a wonderful opportunity to leave a lasting mark on our new home!

We are looking for a name inspired by a historical figure, preferably someone connected to the University of Groningen. Ideally, the name should also reflect themes related to Liberal Arts and Sciences or Healthy Ageing. Moreover, it’s important that the name is unique within the University of Groningen.

A selection committee will review all submissions. A selection of the suggested names will then be presented to the Board of the University, who will make the final decision on the name.

Do you have a suitable name in mind? If so, please fill out the form below. Submissions can be made until 20 October.

About UCG

University College Groningen started in 2014 as a new faculty of the University of Groningen (UG) and focuses its Liberal Arts and Sciences bachelor's programme on complex social issues in the context of energy, digitalisation, healthy ageing and sustainability. "We are excited to see the first steps of this amazing project come to life”, says the Faculty Board if UCG. “As a part of the Healthy Ageing Campus, this new building will not only provide a modern learning environment for students, but also serve as a place where other faculties can come together and continue to build upon a rich academic tradition of the University of Groningen. We look forward to seeing this space become a vibrant hub for creativity, collaboration, and the continued pursuit of knowledge for the whole UG community."