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RECOGNIZING POSSIBILITIES

read time | 3 minutes

Building upon existing qualities in an minimalistic approach

There are numerous opportunities for reuse hidden in the urban landscape: vacant buildings, vacant lots and abandoned warehouses offer opportunities. These hidden treasures are often found in places where nothing else has ever been considered before.

Transforming these places goes beyond simply renovating buildings. In addition to the physical changes in a part of the city, it offers the opportunity to embrace the past while at the same time building a better future.

redevelopment of church building OLV Voorburg Laan van NOI
detailimage of connection between newbuild and monumental gradeII listed building

connecting to the existing building

Rather than dramatically changing the character of an existing building, we strive for a harmonious integration of old and new elements. This does not mean that we should not leave room for innovation and modernity. Rather, it's about finding a balance between preserving the past and embracing the future. That is the challenge that requires creativity and respect for heritage. We need to look at ways in which new developments can flourish within the context of the existing context, and how they can help strengthen urban community ties.

When transforming an urban place, it is essential to actively embrace the existing details, even at a time when the desire for improvement and innovation often dominates. When introducing something new, we provide a contrast, something that differs from the existing building. By seeking out this contrast, we can create a deeper connection between the old and the new, resulting in a concept of evolution and coherence.

With this approach, we create an urban environment that is both vibrant and resilient, where the past inspires the future, and where residents are proud of their heritage.

Analyzing the feasibility of projects

This requires not only creativity and craftsmanship, but also an insight into feasibility. We are aware of the fact that costs play a crucial factor. Using Building Information Modeling (BIM) we can make accurate cost estimates and identify potential pitfalls at an early stage. This technology allows us to view the project from all angles, allowing us to plan and budget more efficiently.

Collaboration with engineers, contractors and other consultants is crucial to achieving feasible architectural solutions. By working intensively together, we utilize everyone's expertise and create synergies that improve the efficiency and quality of the project. This approach ensures that the execution of the project is early adapted into a project and allows us to overcome obstacles and find innovative solutions that would otherwise be overlooked.

animation of the transformation concept of the church on the laan van Nieuw Oost Indie in Voorburg
sketch floorplan of communal space offground

Social impact

Transforming traditional, conservative structures into innovative and livable designs can have a significant social impact on both the users and the community as a whole. Take, for example, the transformation of presented church into a vibrant place where people gather, no longer for religious purposes, but to dance, perform, learn and work.

Another example is the transformation of traditional internal corridor accessed appartments or appartments with narrow deck access into improved living concepts that enhance livability and communal sense. With modern building technologies, such transformations can create much more daylight, allowing residents not only to receive more natural light, but also to experience better views. This directly affects quality of life, as daylight and good views promote orientation and comfort.

Creating a communal deck as a general meeting place goes one step further in improving the social dynamics within a residential community. The shifting of apartments creates more and fewer private sections of the public space, creating a kind of "boulevard in the sky." This promotes spontaneous meetings between neighbors and enhances the sense of togetherness and community.

In addition to the impact at the building level, these transformations in urban areas also open up opportunities for public spaces at the street level. Designing places with more greenery and meeting spaces creates a vibrant community. This promotes social interaction among neighborhood residents and contributes to a sense of belonging and safety. In addition, creating green spaces and public places leads to a more inclusive environment. People of all ages and backgrounds can come together and enjoy the outdoors. These public space improvements encourage a positive sense of well-being in the city. In doing so, we create spaces and experiences that energize users.

sketch floorplan of the urban planning concept
profile sketches of the connection of the building to its surroundings
sustainability concept in 5 terms

Sustainability

Our designs embrace the future as a fundamental parameter. In doing so, sustainability is not an end in itself, but an essential means. We divide sustainability in a project into five essential pillars - material, energy, flora & fauna, water and air - laying a solid foundation for the future. Our approach to architecture goes beyond creating aesthetic objects: it is a dynamic process that constantly adapts to the changing needs of society. We believe in adaptive architecture, which means not only looking at what is needed now, but also thinking ahead and planning for what might be needed in the future.