uarchitects: maasberg juvenile detention living

'maasberg juvenile detention living' by uarchitects, overloon, the netherlands
images courtesy of uarchitects


eindhoven-based practice uarchitects has completed 'maasberg juvenile detention living', a project that looks to
establish a new and more intensive interaction between the youth and the surrounding, natural environment.
converted from an adult prison in an autonomously  functioning juvenile detention center, the development includes
the renovation of an existing unit and a new pavilion at the center of the site.

open and transparent, the new building aims to stimulate the daily shifts between living, learning and recreation.
an expression of temporality - like the stay of the offenders themselves - the design assumes a respectful relationship
with the detainees, the visitors and its environment. a dialogue between containment and freedom, expressed in the
porous boundaries between indoors and out, aims to prepare the youth for their transition back into society,
while also communicating a sense of trust.



side elevation of new pavilion


steel, aluminum and wood integrates the structure with its surrounding context, its light appearance and orientation
seemingly floating above the landscape. composed of modular panels and elements, the design allows for flexibility in
accommodating future changes in the program and treatment.



modular panels alternate between wood slats and fully glazed



the pavilion sits above the landscape on a series of low pillars



detail of facade



south elevation



stairways at the north and south end of the structure



stairway and entrance



classroom



evening view



floor plan / level 0



floor plan / level 1



east elevation



west elevation



(left) south elevation
(right) north elevation



section