The project is located along Dorp-West in Zwijndrecht, an important access road (N70) with a tramline. An existing modernist-inspired house from 1960 is being transformed and expanded into a contemporary multi-family dwelling. The expansion and the form of the multi-family dwelling are a result of the characteristics of the surroundings: roof shape (flat or sloped), number of building and residential levels (2), maximum front facade building line, maximum expansion, and functions (both multi-family and single-family dwellings).
Both urban planning and architectural concepts were established to design within this framework. The existing rhythm in the front facade building line was respected, and the rear facade building line of the adjacent buildings was retained. A narrow structure with a flat roof was used as the expansion model. Naturally, the new complex required architectural attention. The application of these concepts gives the complex clean horizontal lines with a rectangular volume in the new section, which is an interpretation of a contemporary roof extension.
The facade materials used include glass, wood, and exterior plaster. By using a limited number of materials, the overall design exudes both calmness and strength. The wooden facade cladding is also intended to symbolize the building’s sustainability. Furthermore, all roofs were equipped with green roofs.
