i29 stacks a series of timber volumes for artist in residence program

i29 stacks a series of timber volumes for artist in residence program
all images courtesy of i29 interior architects

together with the rijksmuseum, de bijenkorf has invited artists, writers, musicians, architects, and designers from all around the world to take part in their artist in residence program. located in a small tower in the historic heart of amsterdam, the department store wanted to reimagine the studio to create a unique experience and cultural haven. this became the starting point for i29 interior architects, who have designed an installation that brings two worlds together in one called ‘room on the roof’.

view of the wooden volumes dispersed along the wall

the architects refer to the work as ‘playing with scale and perception as in the universe of ‘alice in wonderland’. on one side, a collection of wooden volumes is vertically dispersed from floor to ceiling, while the other presents a contrasting negative space similar to a blank canvas. the functions of the former have been stacked on top of each other as a kind of ‘living cabinet’ in order to provide view from the tower on different levels linked by small ladders.

circulation is provided via small ladders

looking down towards the desk

view of the desk and daybed

in turn, the rest of the interior and accessories such as the telescope, armchair, and lamps, are highlighted with a coat of stark white. the juxtaposed environments are bisected by a monumental staircase of dark metal that spirals up to the cupola that has been restored and adds to the fairytale-like atmosphere.

the rest of the interior is classified by stark white decor and furnishings

de bjienkorf wanted a unique experience and cultural haven

the materials and details are in a state of juxtaposition

the main circulation leads to the cupola above

the spiral staircase juxtaposes the sides of the interior

the tower is located in the heart of amsterdam

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.