The urban context of this apartment building at the Weespertrekvaart in Amsterdam is that of a housing block surrounded by individual lots which each their own design and use of materials. Instead of answering its surrounding with a similar exuberant design this house constitutes a counterweight because of its subdued but strong appearance. This design is based on two large adjacent openings that repeat over the floors. On the ground floor and the top floor this rhythm is interrupted and replaced by an opening double the size. This marks the entrance and the balcony. The repetition of pencil widths and horizontal facade elements provide a controlled image and strengthens the ground and top floor which are the exception to the rule. Since a large part of the entrance doors are hauled by a parking facility, this design aims at a spacious street-level porch which serves for access to the living area and also serves as the reception area of the ground floor and first floor office. This to achieve liveliness at ground level.
Location Amsterdam, Netherlands
Year 2019
Client Private
Contractor Bouwbedrijf Degewij BV