Hoofddorp House II
Serge Schoemaker Architects takes great pleasure in giving spaces an architectural character. Also in the process of renovating this detached house in Hoofddorp, the spaciousness of the floor plan and the tactility of the materials became central to design. With a number of small incisive changes, the new design reveals and emphasises the hidden qualities of the house.
On the ground floor, the existing garage was insulated and connected to the living room, creating a completely new layout. In the new design, the former garage functions as a new entrance space, allowing the kitchen and living space to be substantially enlarged. The additional space was also used to create a studio space and toilet facilities. The solid garage door on the street side has been replaced by an inviting entrance frame.
A special characteristic of the site is a height difference between the street at the front and the water at the rear. Before the transformation, the change in level was not very noticeable, but with the new design it has become an integral part of the interior. The raised floor has been extended into the living room and connected to the former garage, so that the floor transitions has become essential to the spatial experience.
The large opening created between the living space and the former garage creates a surprisingly spacious feeling. With this transformation, the ground floor has been significantly enlarged without building an extension, which was the original idea of the client. The new, open floor plan is structured by floor-to-ceiling, furniture-like volumes, creating an attractive meandering living space. The sustainable underfloor heating system guarantees a comfortable indoor climate.
The monolithic character of the grey floor is enhanced by the finishing with large, ceramic floor tiles. The floor-to-ceiling furniture is covered with a contrasting and warm walnut veneer. All other parts of the interior are finished in black or white. This restraint in the use of materials has led to a simple yet elegant interior that has a feeling of peace and harmony.
Location: Hoofddorp, Netherlands
Date: 2022-2023
Status: Completed
Client: Private
Project team: Serge Schoemaker, Ottavia Profumo | Jurgi Cinta, Andrew Choptiany
Photography: MWA Hart Nibbrig
