Five Social housing units “Westveld”
Within the 'Westveld' district, several social housing units needed to be replaced on three different sites close to each other.The current dwellings date from 1954 and can no longer cope with contemporary standards. The proposal starts by reinterpreting what was valued.
The current dwellings date from 1954 and can no longer cope with contemporary standards. The proposal starts by reinterpreting what we value.
Memories can live on by including spatial characteristics and qualities in the new design. Balanced compositions, unity between the materials and a characteristic colour palette ensure that the new dwellings connect with those that are to be retained.
The objective is the thoughtful search for an architecture that, in terms of scale and character, completes the neighbourhood like a long-lost puzzle piece. Four old dwellings become five. In relation to each other, contemporary and at the same time in dialogue with the existing neighbourhood. The current contour lines and the northern orientation of the gardens require an intelligent use of space, both internally and towards the street. The kitchen on the street side forms the link between public and private. The gardens are intimate resting places and are connected to the public domain by a hedge with garden gates.
Use was made of a well-known range of materials. Subtly varied, it still retains the attractive uniformity of the garden suburb. In concrete terms, the houses are articulated by the pronounced brick strips. The tile pattern forms the plinth and continues into the rear building, a tilted block bond gives shape to the body and a sturdy concrete cornice crowns the volume. The joinery is recessed, serene and white. Entrance porches with front doors are each given an individual tone and are thus highlighted. A concrete canopy makes a generous gesture towards family and guests.
