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