shift architecture urbanism: vertical loft

‘vertical loft’ by shift architecture urbanism, rotterdam, the netherlands images © rene de wit and jeroen musch

dutch firm shift architecture urbanism has sent us images of their recently completed project ‘vertical loft’, located in the center of rotterdam, netherlands. the renovation of this dwelling is part of an experiment initiated by the municipality to revitalize old and neglected pre-war buildings situated in the urban core. the interior was completed gutted allowing the homeowners a fresh palette to transform the space into a customized home. taking advantage of the narrow and industrial frame an open concept was conceived for the residence.

the main level features the kitchen and dining space which opens onto the back patio. the exposed brick, concrete flooring and steel stairway maintain an industrial aesthetic which continues into the custom island and lighting. a large over-sized shelving unit is positioned along the width of the space separating the public and private areas in the household.

concrete island

the modular system travels from the ground level to the third floor piercing the space with its distinct walnut finish. it separates the second floor both physically and visually while the contrasting flooring distinguishes the areas of work and relaxation. covered in a polyurethane surface, the office area is recognizable through its green attribute while the living room has a parquet pattern. the narrow hallway leads one to the separated water closets.

measuring 10 by 9 meters in length the unit integrates separate characteristics into one singular piece providing storage options for appliances, books and clothing. its vertical circulation provides diagonal views of the space and replaces the load bearing middle wall of the original house. on the top floor the millwork transforms into a walk-in closet for the separate bedrooms.

narrow hallway to powder room

view of open living space

steel stairway

(left) view from open office (right) view from living space

(left) original brick wall (right) bedrooms

site plan

section

plans

elevation

project info:

design: shift architecture urbanism, rotterdam project architects: oana rades and harm timmermans contractor: jwk bouwteam, gerrit kooiker, ijzendoorn construction: b2co, richard fielt, ede installations: installatietechniek fred vd pol & zn., ede floors: drt, oss fixed furniture: gerrit kooiker, gaby van den boom