donna strijp-s

client: SDK vastgoed
location: Eindhoven
program: werken/wonen
construction: Adviesbureau Tielemans
publication: Harm Tilman

Strijp-S is unique in every way, the high percentage of creative people living and working in Strijp-S, the industrial past, the work mentality and the 'raw' side of the existing buildings. The addition of a diverse program and challenging new construction over the years has ensured that Strijp-S becomes a place where you want to be, where you can learn, live, work and create.

In this context, De Bever architects have been asked to design a multifunctional building on the site of the temporary parking garage next to the klok gebouw. The idea to symbolize the uniqueness and robustness of the area has led to an inviting and sturdy building that, due to its design, use of materials and structure, fits both the old buildings as well the new building on Strijp-S.

The double-height entrance with a public outdoor space above, accentuates the inviting use of this building. The high recessed ground floor gives access to the large open interior. This plinth with large XL windows also ensures maximum transparency and in sight of the Ketelhuisplein. Due to its open character, this building differs from the relatively closed buildings on the left and right, thereby acquiring a connecting position at the Philitelaan in the heart of Strijp-S.

Use

Due to the large dimensions of floor spans, thick high concrete columns and facade openings with lots of daylight, the building offers maximum freedom to the user to arrange the space according to his needs. In addition, a lot of space can also be shared, which stimulates mutual connection and meeting. A large part of the interior space, in the middle of the building, can be arranged as needed and has a semi-private, public character. On these floors, from the ground floor to the 7th floor, large open spaces with voids and stairs have been created with a varying view of the city. The concrete skeleton and large parts of the installation technique remain visible. This robust appearance emphasizes that it is a building where much is possible and where is no limit in terms of use. In that sense the building fits in with the old Philips buildings. Buildings that still suffice the needs after 100 years because they are robust and large in size and therefore relatively easy to transform.

Apartments

The top 4 floors (8th to 11th floors) are intended for work studios and apartments. Here too, the architecture of a robust building skeleton has been continued, whereby the appearance leaves a lot of space for the end user. The work studios and apartments have the character of a loft, where the open character of the floor plan and the facade layout gives a lot of freedom with regard to the layout. The separate entrances on the ground floor give access to the apartments on the 6th to 9th floors. On the 6th floor is a centrally located, like garden furnished joint outdoor space, which residents can use together.

Artwork

In prominent places, a space has been created for a creative expressions in the form of a artwork. The artworks will appear above the main entrance, above the large balcony on Philitelaan and within the framework of the concrete facade grid, against the entire facade (36 x 36 meters), on the track side. These artworks aim to reflect the creative, cultural identity of this special place. The appearance will be dynamic and colourful and is clearly visible from the Philitelaan and to the many train travellers who pass Strijp-S every day.