TOPPINGS

Smart urban sustainability and densification, without new land

The Netherlands faces a dual challenge: a housing shortage and the sustainability of existing real estate. Optoppen offers a smart solution for both issues. By building new homes on existing roofs, we create value that finances the sustainability of your building. By topping up, you make your real estate future-proof without your own investment.

What is toppings?

Topping is adding one or more new floors to an existing building. At Creative City Solutions, we build these homes lightly and sustainably in wood, where existing residents can usually continue to live as usual. Through smart prefabrication in the factory and an efficient process, we keep the inconvenience to a minimum. The sale of these new homes can finance the sustainability of your building.

A topping for every solution

Each owner has different needs. That's why we offer various top options: from distinctly modern designs to classics with a historic look.

Contrasterende optopping

Zo blijft het bestaande en de toevoeging leesbaar. Er is meer architectonische vrijheid genomen bij het ontwerp.

Historiserende optopping

Optopping ontworpen in de geest van het bestaande gebouw op de A.J. Ernststraat in Amsterdam

Optopping met set-back

Een nieuwe verdieping, terugliggend van de bestaande gevel op de Houtmankade in Amsterdam.

Why topping up?

Extra income

The sale of new homes provides income for the VvE. They can be used for maintenance, sustainability or lower monthly costs.

Less maintenance

The new roof replaces the old one, and elevator renovation can be included. This saves costs in the long run.

Carefree living

With a new elevator and extra homes, older residents can continue to live comfortably or move to a suitable home in the same building.

More property value

A modern entrance, a new elevator and improved facilities provide a fresh look and increase in value for the building.

Leave the topping paying for your sustainability and maintenance

Many buildings need to be made more sustainable — otherwise there is a risk of high costs, for example due to foundation problems. Owners seek financing through their own contributions, loans or grants.

Smart topping

Expertise

Your team of specialists

As a team of technical specialists, project managers and sustainability experts, we relieve building owners from the entire process of topping up and making it more sustainable. Whether you are a VvE, housing association or real estate investor - we develop a customized plan, arrange permits and procedures, and supervise implementation from A to Z. You are in control, we do the work.

Explainer

Financing

From subsidies to innovative solutions such as topping - we cover all options to make your building more energy efficient affordably. This practical explainer shows how you can pay for the investment and what it brings: lower energy costs, a higher home value and a smaller ecological footprint. With concrete examples and explanations of available subsidies.

Explainer

Technical connection

Connecting a topping to an existing building involves various technical challenges. From fire safety and noise control to the connection of utilities such as water, electricity and ventilation. With the right expertise and controls, we ensure a safe, comfortable and seamless connection between old and new.

Explainer

Foundation

What about the foundation when installing a topping? Answer to the most frequently asked question when topping: What about the foundation? Can we build on the existing foundation or are adjustments necessary? Eliane takes you through all aspects of the foundation when topping up and gives you a few practical tips!

Tailored guidance for every stakeholder in the sustainability journey

At Creative City Solutions, we turn complex building challenges into clear, actionable steps. With deep expertise and a tested approach, we help you navigate technical, financial, and social hurdles—so we can reach the finish line together.
I’m part of a homeowners’ association (vve)
We help vve's improve and future-proof their buildings—without losing sight of affordability. How do you finance major maintenance or insulation upgrades?How do you bring all members on board, even in fragmented ownership situations?
With our structured process, both topping up and sustainable renovation become realistic and attractive. From the first idea to full implementation, we support your VvEvvethrough every decision—covering technical studies, subsidies, and collective decision-making.
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I am an investor
We help you boost both the sustainability and value of your real estate portfolio.Our innovative strategies—including rooftop development—strengthen long-term returns and make your assets future-ready. From feasibility to execution, we help you unlock new potential in existing properties.
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I represent a housing association
We understand your challenges: balancing sustainability, affordability, housing shortages, and resident engagement—all within complex ownership structures.Our team supports you from A to Z: from feasibility studies to the construction of new residential layers, with full attention to the social and technical dimensions of transformation.
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I work for a municipality
We support municipalities in meeting spatial and sustainability goals—like increasing housing supply, reducing emissions, and promoting smart densification.
How do you build support among residents?
How do you integrate rooftop development into urban policy? And what about parking, leasehold, and permits?
We co-develop scalable solutions, test new policies, and help accelerate local climate and housing agendas.
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Guidelines by CCS

In cooperation with other parties, we have bundled our knowledge into a number of guidelines. Download them here!Kennis Hub.

FAQ

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