Coussée & Goris Architects give Escher, the Pakhuizen, the Waterhuis and the Artist studio's a new meaning. The basic approach of the conversion of the existing buildings was that a function had to be found which would revive the buildings. There has been chosen for living areas on the upper floors and a work function on the ground.
Past and future in a single building
Every precious stone and steel part of the existing buildings on the Stokerijstraat, is retained. The charm of the historical monument, with its diversity of old spaces, is preserved. Its authenticity has even been strengthened by removing all alterations and additions that have been added onto it over the years, and by the addition of new contrasting elements.
The conversion will revive the existing buildings by creating living functions on the story's and a work function on the ground floor.
Old façades
The complex of buildings is being completely cleaned out and the old façades revealed again. The original openings, which are still visible, are being re-opened. Where necessary for the new functions of the building, new openings are being created, simply and powerfully integrated into the rhythm of the existing openings. By removing a number of buildings, some inner spaces are freed up. Thus small squares and passages are formed, which again provide the original buildings with light and air.
Surprising spaces
On their ground floors, the Pakhuizen have spaces for trade and services. The openness of the existing large spaces is retained and integrated into the new functions: the surprising qualities of the spaces thus regain their full value.
Modern freshness
The residential function is also provided by a new structure on top of the existing brick buildings, so a layered spatiality arises. Coussée & Goris conceived the new housing volumes, in line with Escher and the Waterhuis, as loggias of columns positioned close together. The construction of steel pillars and glass introduce a modern freshness and create a fascinating play of shadows, in contrast to the monolithic character of the brick substructure.