casanova hernandez architects frames twin housing blocks

the exterior skin of the two black and white volumes is perforated with windows, forming a composition of voids that helps them integrate into the urban context.

helena casanova edited by celia mahon heap January 25, 2014 2 min

casanova hernandez architects frames twin housing blocks
all images courtesy of casanova hernandez architects

dividing the ‘black & white twins’ apartment blocks, rotterdam-based studio casanova hernandez architects, has experimented with their spatial and visual integration into the site. the two volumes are located in the urban development of blaricummermeent in the netherlands, which mainly consists of single-family houses and villas. minimizing their impact on the surrounding area, the small-scale units are four levels high and offer affordable accommodation.

their exterior façades are perforated with windows, forming a composition of voids that wrap through the interior of the building. the open areas are filled with white to contrast and emphasize the outside ‘skin’. this visual device is used to help mask the structure in its context, while the living spaces are provided with an interface that frames different views.

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exterior view of one of the twin housing blocks

large cut-outs are located on the corners, combining two balconies placed on top of each other to form a single element. the reduced amount of openings and the deconstruction of these edges, enables the mass to be perceived as a smaller object, and comparable to the existing low-rise buildings. the playful rhythm formed by the positioning of the voids is enhanced by the alternating of different floor plans. each one is unique and, although they share common design features, they present variations in terms of size and organization of the living spaces to promote diversity.

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exterior view of the other twin, showing the perforated black skin

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the corners have large cut-outs to reduce the overall size of the volume

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the façade has garages integrated into it

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composition of the windows

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differentiation between the interiors

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concept development of the skin

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model of the black exterior skin

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site plan of one of the twins

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site plan of the other twin

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plan – ground floor

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