mohn + bouman architects: protected housing

‘protected housing’ by möhn + bouman architects in zoetermeer, the netherlands all images courtesy möhn + bouman architects above image by sarah blee

rotterdam-based practice möhn + bouman architects has sent us images of ‘protected housing’, a two-storey housing block for 24 mentally-disabled inhabitants in zoetermeer, the netherlands. with an emphasis on encouraging socialization between both the residents and the rest of the neighbourhood community, the design focuses on interactive space that connects the building with the environment.

exterior view image by sarah blee

considerably stepped back from the plot line to the east, the design integrates a generous outdoor garden that is densely plated with birch trees. a wide street finished in concrete blocks serves as an open plaza with the corner of the building ‘peeled up’ to expose a large social meeting- and dining room fronted with glass. a white concrete platform, which regulates the form of the overall volume highlights this transparent corner by raising itself to roof level, providing a shaded area beneath.

facade image by sarah blee

separated into two components – 12 people living in groups and the other 12 inhabitants in autonomous units – the interior is arranged in an asymetrical layout. from the entrance, the circulation is guided inwards by angled walls that funnel up to an atrium on the first floor. a roof terrace is accommodated above the entrance, offering views of the neighbourhood from the plaza.

image by sarah blee