Balancing potential & feasibility
Words by
Simon van Oldenbeek
Star
Robert Dolieslager
Photography
Casper Rila

A Stellar Destination is a product of collaboration with visionary minds. Specialists who understand not just how to build, but why. One of them is Robert Dolieslager, Deputy Director Development at Heembouw. With his unique, grounded ability to connect ambitions to viable, future-ready solutions, Robert is an important connection within our network.

Robert Dolieslager
Navigating commercial potential & technical feasibility
Robert plays a key role in balancing commercial potential with technical feasibility, all while safeguarding the integrated quality that defines a Stellar Development destination. His fascination with all things built is driven by his love for creativity, passion for engineering and teamwork. And how this combination can shape the world around us.
In a world increasingly shaped by technology, Robert sees his role as one of a connector and orchestrator. Of course, technological innovations are great, like how we’ve parametrically designed parts of Ara Almelo or what we do with Capella®. However, integrating these innovations meaningfully into the development journey, while always keeping an eye on human needs, is key.
“Basically, my role is to ensure everyone stays connected, focused, and committed to the integral quality we stand for as a team.”
Deputy Director Development, Robert Dolieslager
Heembouw


The strength of an integrated approach
What makes Heembouw, and by extension, Stellar Development, unique is the vertical process between design, development, and execution. This integrated structure allows for swift adaptation, seamless coordination, and bespoke solutions. Robert finds his greatest joy in the moments when a vision materializes; when an end user lights up upon seeing a design that perfectly envisions their needs.
“I take particular pride in translating shared ambitions into tangible results. To ensure that quality and innovation are embedded in every layer of the development process, allowing the outcome to be more efficient, responsive, and insightful.”
Deputy Director Development, Robert Dolieslager
Heembouw
What makes a Stellar Destination unique
To Robert, a Stellar Development destination isn’t just a building; it’s a living, breathing ecosystem. These destinations stand out because they’re grounded in vision, experience, and future-forward thinking. They deliver value not just for end users, but for communities and the environment as a whole. The magic lies in how every pillar, Architecture, Functionality, Nature, and Technology, works in harmony to elevate a place.
This way of working forces us to have a more long-term vision, which is important because in our industry, too often, the focus is still on short-term profits. While sustainability, circularity, and social value are becoming increasingly important.

Robert Dolieslager portrait
Envisioning what's next
Robert advocates for a shift from short-term returns to long-term value creation. The real estate world, particularly in logistics, still too often prioritizes immediacy. But for Robert, it’s time to embrace deeper priorities, sustainability, circularity, and social impact.
Looking ahead, Robert envisions multifunctional hubs that do more than just move goods. These hubs would support urban logistics,
incorporate energy generation, and make use of reclaimed or recycled materials. Logistics buildings should no longer be isolated monoliths, they should be woven into the fabric of their surroundings, contributing positively to the broader ecosystem.
“Innovation often comes from unexpected angles. It’s my contribution to be receptive in conversations with partners, suppliers, and spot the right opportunities to push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Deputy Director Development, Robert Dolieslager
Heembouw