Within a regeneration area in Gorredijk, The Netherlands, Lautenbag Architecture were commissioned to renovate and refurbish the existing façade of the Dutch Chain Store Hema and associated warehouse into eight individual apartments to complement the redevelopment of the surrounding areas.
The location required a clean and simple gesture to enhance the existing area, the existing 1970’s dreary façade was redesigned to a modernist style with fine craftmanship and rich materials to give the feeling of exuberance and technological progress.
The plinth, the middle and the modest closure of the roof edge ensure clarity in the construction. The simple use of materials and the round corners ensure subtle transitions in the façade. The sympathetic approach te the existing built environment and the adjacent alley also enhances the curves giving an increased definition tot he facade.
The minimalist colours of grey, black and white offer a sleek and crisp finish to the building along with the contrasting materials and textures which give an alternative dimension and depth to the building allowing a smooth transition throughout the building, this is further enhanced by the layout of the apartments which offer light and airy spaces with light running from the front to the rear of the buildings and maximising the views of the square to the front. To the rear the balconies and steel staircases offer a structured alignment that complements the building and contrasts against the black cladding.