CONVERTED WAREHOUSE
OFFICE
Vlaardingen
2215 m2
Office space
2019
The project
Firm Architects was commissioned by a private investor to transform a 215-square-meter section of this century-old warehouse on Rotterdam’s harbor into office space.
Space
The warehouse, located on one of Rotterdam’s busiest harbors, initially presented a challenge with limited light and minimal windows on the north facade. After obtaining the right from the Monument Commission to open the old window openings in the facade and add new windows and doors, it became possible to create a well-lit space. To further enhance this, Firm’s architects decided to separate the new interior from the old walls.
The design
Creating a light-filled space remained one of the biggest challenges of the design. One intervention to increase light penetration came by placing a glass floor across the full width of the façade. Mirrors were strategically added to the walls on both levels to enhance this effect.
The wood paneling forms a volume that embraces the large central void and provides perfect acoustics for an office.
