Koningin Wilhelminahaven Warehouse in Vlaardingen, NL, Rotterdam Building News, Netherlands Architecture Photos
Koningin Wilhelminahaven Warehouse in Vlaardingen
21 Mar 2020
Converted Warehouse ZZ21
Design: Firm Architects
Location: Vlaardingen, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

For a private investor, Firm converted a 215 square meter part of this 120-year-old Warehouse on one of the busiest harbors in the Port of Rotterdam. The poorly lit space combined with a north-facing facade with just a few windows meant the owner needed to be visionary in order to perceive a bright and well usable office space.

It is this capacity combined with the architectural aspirations and the open mind of the investor that ultimately have led to a strong collaboration with the architects and thoughtful design for Converted Warehouse ZZ21.
The architects started their architectural task by researching the maximum number and size of possible new openings in the façade. All in close contact with the monuments’ committee of the municipality. After securing the right to open-up the old window openings in the facade and add new windows and doors, the possibility to create a well-lit space was conceived.

To further enhance this, Firm architects decided to disconnect the new interior from the old walls. This appearance of the design is somewhat subtracted from the original shell, the old brick walls has a dual purpose; it creates architectural contrast and it ensures the minimal north-facing day...