Strandweg Zuid
Within this part of the total plan "Watercentrum" the plan Strandweg Zuid is an attractive living environment of high quality. The houses along the Strandweg are two storeys high with a studio and roof terrace on top. This top floor creates a view from these homes on the ships on the Nieuwe Waterweg. The properties manifest themselves as individual terraced town houses and the slightly bended street absorbs the dunes opposite. These properties set the tone for the experience of 'Oude Hoek'.
Competition
The design made by our office, commissioned by Bontenbal, was preferred in the competition that the municipality had issued for this location. The urban design has played a major role. Because we started by finding proper solutions to make a very pleasant living environment for this area, and the design of the houses is just one facet of it.
A nice neighbourhood for people, not cars
We have deliberately opted for single family houses, not apartments. These homes lend a far more neighbourhood feel to the area. Furthermore, we tried to separate the traffic from the residential area. Therefore we have shifted the parking lots from the public to the private area. Thus, the inhabitants are assured of their place and the surroundings remain bright and beautiful green. Where we still needed some space, to reach the parking, we have solved it hidden in so-called 'mews' (named after London streets that once let to the stables). For the residents the experience is still green, even in the wadi parking is not allowed.
Pleasant houses where it is worth living
Strandweg Zuid course is a wonderful location to which we have wanted to connect as much as possible with royal houses. The width of 7.20 meters wide is unusual nowadays, but it does ensure that the houses are very spacious. It is also easier to create living spaces up front and at the back of the house. There are no small houses along the Strandweg Zuid. Instead the road features town houses with an individual character. Furthermore, we have always looked for opportunities for the specific location. Thus, the gardens are situated to the south as much as possible, providing nice views. This is also why some of the living accommodations are situated on the first floor and why others have a rooftop, which creates a nice view of the shipping and the Nieuwe Waterweg.
Connecting to the atmosphere of the location
A dune and beach location like this calls for light buildings. It also fits better with the existing white houses. In addition, we were responsive to the environment with the design and the selection of materials. Sustainable materials, clean brick, metal and certified hardwood, for example, with some roofs referring to the wings of a gull. And we have taken care to really complete the project. Separations between private and public area consists for example of metal baskets filled with shells. This way we have designed contemporary homes that really fit with the location, which in itself contributes to the location. With the semi-circular bay windows we have awarded ourselves a subtle reference to the present architecture of the Dutch architect J.J.P. Oud near the location. The keen observer will thus see the connection with the past.
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