Rijnstraat

This design combines the rebuild of two dilapidated mediaeval monuments with a new construction. The two existing buildings were among the oldest of the city and were extensively researched for cultural and historical traces. Original historical configurations, such as the cellars, courtyards and the so-called ozendrup (a sort of gutter between the two buildings) were leading in the reconstruction. These old elements were reinstated and employed functionally in the new layout. The new addition, which was given an explicitly contrasting look contributed to mitigating the high expenses of the restauration and renovation. The new construction is clad in a mustard yellow glass skin that is also used in the parapets of the balcony and roof terrace. The surrounding, monumental roofscapes are reflected in all the glass so that despite the stark contrast between old and new the two blend together surprisingly well.