• MATH Studio, Den Haag

    Challenges During Renovation

    Since October 2019, MATH Architects has been based in a distinctive townhouse on Laan van Meerdervoort in The Hague. The renovation of this residential building, originally constructed in 1906, transformed an outdated office into a contemporary architecture studio that reflects the firm’s design vision while providing a comfortable and inspiring work environment for employees and visitors.

    At the start of the project, the building—which had last been renovated in the 1970s—was in a state of disrepair due to neglected maintenance and natural wear and tear over the years. A key challenge in such renovations is reconciling contemporary requirements for comfort, energy performance, fire safety, and usability with the preservation of the building’s original architectural characteristics. In existing buildings in particular, striking this balance requires a careful and respectful design approach, with the building’s historical value serving as the starting point.

    Design: from building structure to finishes

    To adapt the building for its new use as an architectural firm, an extension was added and the basement underwent a thorough renovation. In addition, the foundation was reinforced—an essential but often underestimated aspect of renovation projects. The technical systems were also completely upgraded. New flooring allowed for the installation of underfloor heating, a mechanical CO2-controlled ventilation system was installed, and additional insulation measures significantly improved both thermal and acoustic comfort. As a result, the building now meets current standards for health, safety, and energy performance.

    The spatial layout of the office plays a central role in how the workplace is experienced. The entrance is located on the street side, while at the rear, a sheltered urban garden provides a tranquil counterpoint to the city’s hustle and bustle. Through large sliding glass doors, the workspaces are directly connected to this green outdoor space, allowing daylight to penetrate deep into the building and creating a pleasant connection between indoors and outdoors.

    The interior is characterized by understated and functional materials. The entire floor is finished with light gray large-format tiles. Walls finished with bamboo give the spaces a warm and contemporary look, while built-in cabinets, storage solutions, and supporting features are crafted from the same material. This consistent use of bamboo creates a clear spatial cohesion in which aesthetics and functionality reinforce one another. The kitchen has also been designed as an integral part of the overall concept and can, if desired, be separated from the workspace by a minimalist sliding door made of steel and glass.

    The chosen materials and detailing align seamlessly with MATH architects’ design philosophy: clear, sustainable, and meticulously crafted. The project demonstrates how a neglected office space within The Hague’s historic context can be successfully transformed into a contemporary architecture studio, where heritage preservation, sustainable renovation strategies, and a high-quality work environment come together in an architectural design that reflects the firm’s identity.

    Project: MATH Studio, den Haag

     Architecture + Interiors: MATH architecten

    Design and construction: 2019-2020

    Foundation Improvement: Revac B.V., Den Haag

    Civil engineer: Piers raadgevende ingenieurs, Rijswijk

    Garden design: Ronald Bakker

    Tiles supplier: Refin Ceramiche

    Facade system: TUDOR B.V., Leiden

    Interior wooden frames: Bouwer kozijntechniek B.V., Den Haag

  • De Kristal, Nesselande

    De Kristal is a square-shaped residential building with approximately 200 homes for the elderly around a courtyard and is located in the Vinex district of Nesselande. Various social facilities have been accommodated in the plinth zone of the building, including a health center, a community center and a library. Due to changes in this use, there is a need to think about a redevelopment of the plinth zone. 

    At the request of the owner SOR and Humanitas, a plan has been made in which the existing group homes can be expanded in the plinth zone of the residential building into a full-fledged care center with 60 residential studios divided over 6 group homes.

    The floor of the existing courtyard on the first floor will be partially removed so that a new three-storey residential block can be placed on the ground floor. The rectangular building block must be constructed lightly and is constructed from prefabricated timber frame construction. This means the building can be completed in a relatively short time.  

    The courtyard on the first floor will be decorated in lush greenery and easily accessible to all residents. The patios on the ground floor are specifically intended for the group homes and provide daylight for all areas adjacent to them.

    The new block fits into the architecture of the surrounding sleek and glass-like residential building through the use of identical materials and high-quality detailing. The facades will be equipped with large windows and the closed facade surfaces will be finished with fiber cement parts. The roof surfaces will have a moss-sedum covering.

    Client: SOR (Stichting Ouderenhuisvesting Rotterdam)

    Design: 2021 - 2024

    Construction: 2025 - 2026

    Architect: MATH architects, The Hague

    Contractor: Dura Vermeer Bouw Heyma, Rotterdam

    Civil engineer: Van der Vorm Engineering, Delft

    Installation adviser: Wolf + Dikken adviseurs, Wateringen

  • Felix Meritis, Amsterdam

    The neoclassical building on the Keizersgracht of the society Felix Meritis is built according to the design by Jacob Otten Husly in 1787. Influenced by the Enlightenment ideals, five different departments were housed in one building: the departments of music, commerce, literature, physics and drawing. It was a masterpiece that - despite its use as a printing factory from 1888 on, a fire in 1932, the turbulent years of the Communistic party headquarters and Shaffy Theater – still remains one of the most monumental buildings in Amsterdam.

    In the end of 2014 the investment firm Amerborgh managed to acquire Felix Meritis through a competition judjed by the city of Amsterdam. MATH was part of the team of specialists who prepared the "bid". MATH was responsible for the architectural vision and an architectural plan for the renovation and restoration. In the following years, these plans have been developed into a full architectural design. The planning permission was granted on March 16, 2017 and later that year started the implementation.

    The building consists of a square-shaped volume at the street side and an oval-shaped volume at the rear connected by a monumental stairwell. These two volumes house the main halls of Felix Meritis. The spaces in between these volumes originally remained open and functioned as patios. MATH architects came up with a transformation concept were function and historic value are optimally integrated. The central objective of the intervention was to restore the historical structure and layout of the building. Though the reconstruction of the original roof contour, the two distinctive volumes of Felix Meritis reappeared clearly in the skyline of Amsterdam. The new roof structure provided also the opportunity to create a new skylight which fills the Husly Lounge with ample natural light from above, reminiscent of the indirect light effect of the original Teekenzaal. Meanwhile, many non-original additions of the past years had to be removed in order to reveal the authentic form and qualities of the spaces. Over time, the original patios have been covered and closed, so that the building structure was no longer experienced. In the current transformation, they have been made again recognizable as an outdoor space, while at the same time they can be used as an indoor space. In order to achieve this outdoor experience, MATH architects designed three glazed roofs which are made entirely of clear glass. The beams -made of glass as well-, guarantee a maximum view towards the sky. The materials and finishes chosen by MATH enhance even more this outdoor feeling.

    One of the biggest challenges has been meeting all the modern technical standards, regulations and requirements for the demanding new program of Felix Meritis -as a house of culture for the arts, science, technology and entrepreneurship- while at the same time preserving its historical elements and values. To use the classical oval Concert Hall in Felix Meritis for both acoustic and amplified music, MATH designed an acoustic cabinet element which functions in both situations. When folded out, the 14 cabinets offer a maximum absorbent surface, and when folded, the door of the sloping surfaces ensures sufficient sound dispersion in the room. In that way the hall can be utilized to its maximum, while these subtle elements do not distort the historical character of the hall. The architectural design respects and strengthens the original building concept. As each department in 1787 had its own character and atmosphere, each room now has its own appearance and interpretation, while all the connecting spaces remain neutral and subordinate. Based on historical research, it appeared that the lower floors preserved more original elements compared to the top floors which have been repeatedly remodeled in the past. Therefore, the re-design of the entrance zone, the Concertzaal and Zuilenzaal aims to preserve the original character, while the halls of the upper floors have a more modern approach. Ascending the main stairwell of Felix Meritis becomes a journey through time, from monumental and introvert to contemporary, light and airy with panoramic views of the city. In mid-2016 the interior architects i29 joined the team and enhanced and completed the architectural concept and design with the interior design.

    Project: Felix Meritis, Amsterdam 

    Client: Amerborgh Monuments/ Amerpodia

    Address: Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam

    Construction: 2017-2020

    Architect: MATH architecten

    Interior design: i29 interiorarchitects

    Restoration advisor: Verlaan & Bouwstra architecten

    Building historical research: De Fabryck

    Historical color research: Judith Bohan

    Concept development: Marcia Sookha

    Construction management: B3 Bouwadviseurs 

    Contractor: Jurriëns, Utrecht

    Interior builder: Stooff interior projects

    Installation advisor: Huisman & van Muijen

    Mechanical installations:: Easy Controls

    Electrotechnical installations: Mega Elektra

    Civil engineer: SID Studio

    Acoustic advisor: Peutz / Level acoustics & vibration

    Lighting design: Lichtconsult

    Photography: Ewout Huibers, MATH architects

  • Villa Bloemcamplaan, Wassenaar

    This beautiful villa by architect Fokke van Duyn is characterized by a two-layer block in white color scheme, with a longitudinal saddle with low roof pitch. The closed façade at the front is broken by the stairwell that has been pushed out. The garage, in its original design clearly subordinating to the main volume, was rebuilt in 1971 and pulled into the living space. This part is of lesser architectural quality.

    Our client wanted a considerable enlargement of the living room. In the design it was decided to realize one clear extension to the main volume and to remove the original (remodeled) garage. Where the main volume consists of two layers with a hood, the L-shaped extension has a single layer.

    The extension is clearly recognizable as an independent unit through an architectural design: steel, glass and wooden louvre screens. The extension jumps in at the location of the connection to the main volume, which is made of glass, which continues as a skylight strip in the roof. The indentation creates a "hidden" side entrance at the front, and the valuable balcony solution on the floor remains free at the side.

    In line with the original starting point of Fokke van Duyn, the rear is open to the garden. The original building is mainly executed in white color tones. Natural material colors are used for the extension, so that the articulation is legible, and the main volume remains recognizable.

    Design: 2017

    Construction: 2017 - 2018

    Contractor: Stanorenovatie, Leidschendam

  • Workshop Taylor, New Jersey USA

    Following a landscape analysis, it was decided—in consultation with the owner—to replace one of the existing barns on this former farm estate with a new building featuring a one-person workshop, in which various mechanical engineering machines of antique value can be housed.

    The existing complex of farm buildings has remained intact, but unlike the existing “Barn-red” boarded barns, untreated red cedar was chosen. Through natural weathering, the building will blend into its surroundings over time. The wooden planks are installed horizontally and flush, with one plank protruding every three planks. This creates a strict horizontal rhythm that allows windows to be placed in various desired locations without disrupting the overall harmony of the structure.

    The facade is constructed around the laminated truss structure in a timber-frame design. The approximately 200 m2 workshop houses various specialties; for example, a “blacksmith forge” has been built in, and metalworking and woodworking machines have also been installed. The building is equipped with an underground exhaust system. Daylight can be remotely controlled via automatic sunshades above the skylights.

    Client: Syneon

    Design: 2005

    Construction: 2005 - 2006

    Contractor: Brian Smith Buildings Inc. , New Hope, Pensylvenia

  • Forest House, Vierhouten

    This forest cabin is located in a clearing on the outskirts of Vierhouten in the Veluwe. Because the house replaced an existing vacation home, restrictions were placed on the maximum allowable floor area.

    The rooms are arranged around a glass-enclosed patio, making the house feel exceptionally spacious despite its limited floor area. At the same time, this creates a buffer between the sleeping and living areas. Large sliding louvered screens can be used to create a more intimate atmosphere in the living room, the patio, or the bedrooms. When no one is home, these screens protect the patio from overly curious wild boars.

    The building is constructed using a wood-frame structure with open siding. Thanks to its robust detailing and the roof finish featuring natural slate laid in a random pattern, the building blends seamlessly into its surroundings.

    The design was developed in close collaboration with the clients and was completed in the summer of 2013. Since then, the house has been called “De Boshut.” It is very popular as a vacation home.

    Design: 2012

    Construction: 2013

    Contractor: Van Wijhe Construction Company, LLC, Doornspijk

  • Apartment Complex, Handel

    This residential complex is situated on a former industrial site in the middle of the village of Handel in North Brabant, Netherlands. The 12 rental apartments are built in two layers over a parking garage. Resolving the parking under the building gave us the opportunity to arrange the surrounding terrain as a communal garden.

    The spacious 2 and 3 room apartments all have a living room with a south-facing balcony. The staggering of the partly indoor balconies provides a pleasant undulation to the facade. On account of the municipal restrictions regarding height, a curved roof was chosen. To match the village architecture, a coarse red brick has been used with dark, inset joints. The roof is made of metal and is enclosed by spacious gutters.

    The building is centrally heated with a heat pump. The closed system uses a heat roof of 100 m2 and seven sources located at a depth of 100 meters. Geothermal energy provides heat, cooling and hot water in the homes. The heat exchanger in the roof keeps the system in balance. All houses have their own distribution unit with meters. Rainwater is purified and collected by means of a sedimentation facility in the garden. Together with the naturally ventilated parking basement, these are aspects that make the building particularly sustainable.

    This project was developed, designed and executed by MATH architects BV in one hand.

    Client: J.A.J. Hermkens

    Design: 2002 - 2006

    Construction: 2007 - 2008

    Contractor: various subcontractors

  • Police Station, Lansingerland

    The Berkel en Rodenrijs police station, originally built as a government police station with two official residences, was severely outdated in 2007. Moreover, the merger of the municipalities of Berkel and Rodenrijs, Bleiswijk and Bergschenhoek to the municipality of Lansingerland with an expected population of around 70,000 people in 2015 meant that there was a need for expansion of the police station. In 2008 MATH architecten was commissioned to renovate and expand the existing building.

    In terms of typology and dimensions, the design fits into the existing building series on Raadhuislaan and laan van Romen. To experience the new police station as one building volume, the facades of both the old and new building have the same materialization. The building has strong frame frames and eaves and a façade cladding with gray-green natural stone granules in two gradations. The robust façade gives way to a transparent and tangible glass façade at the entrances and public spaces.

    The construction work had to be carried out while the police station continued to function. The main set-up of the design takes this into account: all core tasks are situated in the new-build section, the supporting functions are located in the former residences and the additional functions in the former government police station. With this setup, the police were able to continue to perform their core tasks at every stage of construction.

    A clear and effectively functioning classification is a prerequisite for the police, which must be able to respond and react quickly. The floor plan of the building is organized around a high hall, centrally located between old and new construction. This hall is brightly lit by roof lights. Glass fronts around the hall ensure visual contact between the public entrance, the workspaces, the turnout wardrobe, the briefing room and the canteen.

    The building has a high degree of flexibility, since the changes within the government departments follow each other in rapid succession. For example, the building was adapted during the construction period to accommodate the newest development: a 3-D declaration space.

    Foto’s: W.K. Mounier, MATH architecten

    Client: Politie, Eenheid Rotterdam, Facilitair bedrijf

    Design: 2008 – 2009

    Construction: 2011-2013

    Contractor: Koninklijke Aannemingsmaatschappij Van Waning bv

  • GEB-toren, Rotterdam

    The first "skyscraper" in the Netherlands from 1931 is, despite disastrous renovations in the 70s and 90s, a prominent national monument in Rotterdam. In the context of an upgrade of various student houses, Stadwonen asked us in 2016 to propose a design for both entrances and underlying spaces.

    Returning the original entrances is not possible due to the change in function. Moreover, the client has the express wish to make the design as open and transparent as possible, so that it "does justice to the monumental character of the building and sufficiently represents the young residents".

    In our design we try to do justice to the structure of the original building. The original composition of the façade is restored to its former glory, the special column structure becomes recognizable again. The elevator and staircase hall is stripped of all in between doors (that are later re-fitted), whereby the beautiful English staircase again takes a prominence. The open study center receives direct daylight through a window and is a reference to the public hall of the past. A new staircase provides a direct connection to the residents' space on the first floor and the communal roof terrace.

    The fully-built ancillary entrance, originally a passage for cars to the forwarding space located behind, is radically renovated on the inside. The client is willing to sacrifice one home for this, so that the entrance hall will have the original width of the passage. A wall-filling image with perspective is added to the back wall, suggesting extra depth. In the materialization, the components that fall within the original structure are kept high-quality but sober: the gray-white color scheme from the early years returns. Additions that do not belong to the original structure, such as the new element with the stairs and the various fixed furniture, are given a contemporary fresh material and color finish.
    In de materialisering worden de bouwdelen die binnen de oorspronkelijke structuur vallen hoogwaardig maar sober gehouden: de grijs-witte kleurstelling uit de beginjaren komt terug. Toevoegingen die niet tot de oorspronkelijk structuur behoren, zoals het nieuwe element met de trappen en de verschillende vaste meubels, krijgen een frisse materiaal- en kleurafwerking.

    After a staff change at the client has taken place, the "request" for the GEB-toren has been adjusted slightly. The emphasis here is on improving the appearance and the monumental character on the outside. We are currently also making a design for the other building entrances and the possibilities for original skylights from the basement are being investigated

    Client: Woonstad Rotterdam

    Design: 2018

    Construction: 2020 - 2021

    Contractor: Van Omme en de Groot, Rotterdam

    Architectural-historical research: De Fabryck, Utrecht

    Civil engineer: Bouwkundig adviesbureau Baas, Rotterdam

  • Villa Sophialaan, Wassenaar

    The former doctor's residence on Sophialaan in Wassenaar was built in 1929 and designed by architect Wouter Mikmak.
    During the renovation, the existing house was preserved, and the spatial layout of the original design served as the starting point.

    The existing addition—a doctor’s office—which had undergone various modifications, was no longer functional. It was completely demolished and replaced by a sleek, geometric two-story box with a basement. Mikmak’s original spatial concept has been carried over into the new connections between the living spaces. For example, there is an open connection between the kitchen in the existing house and the garden room in the new addition.

    The addition is thus oriented toward the main building both functionally and spatially. A clear distinction has been made in the exterior design. This is particularly evident in the use of contrasting materials such as honed bluestone cladding, dark gray coated steel, and large glass surfaces.
    Naast het vernieuwen van de uitbouw is ook de zolder opnieuw ingedeeld, waarbij de bijzondere kapconstructie zichtbaar is gemaakt.

    Design: 2006 – 2007

    Construction: 2007 - 2009

    Contractor: Ivkast s.r.o.

  • Residential House on Kerkstraat, Katwijk

    What began as a request for a second opinion grew into a complete design assignment for renovation and expansion of the building on Kerkstraat.

    The old house with forge was stripped of all disturbing 70s renovations. A new volume has been placed in the space between the two existing building volumes that is characterized by the use of glass and steel. This contrasts with the existing materialization of the building that is mainly made of brick and ceramic roof tiles.

    In the front section of the house, the original exposed beam ceiling has been preserved and remains fully visible.

    All of the existing rooms in the house lead into the combined living room and kitchen within the new extension, creating a clear and logical layout throughout the home. On the upper floor, a new landing connects the bedrooms located within the existing roof dormers. Oak wood and Belgian bluestone are used throughout both the original house and the extension, giving the interior a cohesive finish.

    Design:2005

    Construction: 2007

    Contractor: K.B.M. bv Katwijk

  • Studio Apartment, Den Haag

    This former post office in the Escamp district of The Hague, located at the end of a 1950s residential building designed by architect Piet Zandstra, has been transformed with simple interventions into a combined living and working space for a visual artist and a photographer. Restoring the building's original architectural qualities was an obvious choice, given the residents' passion for the design aesthetics of the 1950s, 1960s, and early 1970s. The ground floor has been designed as an open-plan space, with the layout organized around a wooden shipping crate that houses a workspace and an American-style kitchen beneath the oval skylight.

    In the former basement, a bedroom and bathroom have been created, illuminated by natural daylight through the existing basement light wells. The wide central area of the basement serves as a studio and receives daylight through three newly introduced openings in the ground-floor slab. These openings are covered with thick, transparent walkable glass panels, creating intriguing visual connections and spatial relationships between the two levels.

    foto’s: Loesje Praktijken and MATH architects

    Design: 2008

    Construction: 2009

    Contractor: IVKAST s.r.o. aannemersbedrijf, Den Haag

  • Kiefhoek J.J.P. Oud, Rotterdam

    The Kiefhoek in the Bloemhof district of Rotterdam is the last and most famous housing project by architect J.J.P. Old, that he made in the service of the Municipal Housing Service Rotterdam. De Kiefhoek is generally regarded as the plan in which he expresses his specific design principles of repetition, symmetry and color application in the most characteristic way. The district was built in 1928/30 and is shortly after the delivery nationally and internationally known as the "New Building" example.

    In 1983, the district received a major overhaul, whereby, among other things, the original wooden frames were replaced by plastic, the wooden fascia boards Trespa plating.

    Due to subsidence, one residential block of eight houses is already in such a state that it is technically impossible to save. In 1988, Wytze Patijn was commissioned to reconstruct this residential block on Hendrik Idoplein, so that the urban design was fully safeguarded. This block, which accommodates various housing types from a previous study and a museum home, will be the "laboratory" for the renovation / restoration for the rest of the Kiefhoek. Our agency is instructed by Wytze Patijn to take on specifications, working drawings and management.

    The residential block was completed in September 1990. After evaluation of the pilot project, it is decided to reconstruct the entire neighborhood with government and municipal subsidies. This solution was chosen because restoration while retaining the hull proved to be prohibitive, given the condition of the houses and in particular the foundations. A collaboration agreement has been concluded with architect Wytze Patijn for this project. Together, a reconstruction plan is designed in 3 phases. The plan is based on the housing types that have been developed for the pilot project of six houses on the Hendrik Ido block. New housing types have been designed for special places in the buildings. Furthermore, the plan contains 2 business premises at the characteristic points at the entrance of the district from the Groene Hilledijk. By merging homes into new types, 190 of the original 290 homes remain after reconstruction.

    foto’s: Fotografie Sonnega
    Collectie gem. archief Rotterdam

    Original design: J.J.P. Oud, 1926

    Construction:1990, 1993 -1995

    Design reconstruction and renovation: i.s.m. Wytze Patijn

    Client: Gemeentelijk Woningbedrijf Rotterdam

    Contractor: Bouwmij Vermeulen, Breda.

    PDF document

  • Residence J.J.P. Oud, Hoek van Holland

    J. J. P. Oud (1890 - 1963) was one of the leading figures of functionalism in the developed in Western Europe in the 1920s. As a member of "de Stijl", he tried to transfer the theoretical ideas of this movement to the practice of building and in all his work he was constantly looking for a synthesis between rationalism and aesthetics, technology and art, tradition and experiment.

    In the complex of workers' houses and shops in Hoek van Holland (design 1926), he said he succeeded best in bringing about this synthesis, which he called "poetic functionalism". The result garnered a great deal of international appreciation not only for the expressive environment and subtle use of color, but also for the quality of the floor plans. Some critics already praised it "perhaps the most beautiful monument of the new architecture".

    The complex was renovated in 1983, but the problems of moisture, cracking and loose plasterwork in the facades were not solved. The municipality of Rotterdam, owner of the complex, asked architect Wytze in 1994 Patijn for advice. Is M. Jaap van Kampen, an architectural firm, issued a recommendation for facade restoration in March 1995. The municipality hands over the complex to the Hoek van Holland housing association, which has been managing it for some time. They commission an additional, residential technical study. I.v.m. the costs are decided to perform the façade restoration in combination with a limited maintenance operation.

    Further destructive testing reveals that the condition of the steel gable beams is such that repair entails considerable additional costs. It is concluded that such an investment in small dwellings with a limited residential-technical future value is not wise. In September 1996, the "joining variant" was decided: 24 of the original 42 dwellings were left, 2 of which were in former stores beside the gate in the middle of the block.

    The discussions about the permissibility of such an intervention and the allocation of costs take almost a year. Ultimately, implementation can start in September 1998.

    Important elements of the intervention at body level are:
    - replacement of wooden ground floor floors with foamed concrete
    - steel supports of façade masonry replaced by concrete
    - (self-supporting) cavity leaf in front facade / concrete beam in rear facade
    - completely remove old façade layers and then apply a combination of exterior and interior facade insulation

    Building history research during construction revealed the original color the facade was not so much white but yellow-gray. The newly applied mineral plaster layer has this color. In one of the (retail) homes, interior elements and are in good consultation with the residents colors processed, as found during research.

    Client: dS+V, Rotterdam, bureau Monumenten /WBV Hoek van Holland

    Ontwerp: i.s.m. Wytze Patijn architecten, 1995 – 1996

    Uitvoering: 1998 – 1999

    Contractor: Ballast NedamWoningbouw West, Rotterdam.

  • Renovation Country House Bremhorstlaan, Wassenaar

    This spacious house is part of two double country houses built in series and dates from 1937. The house has an impractical layout at the rear, whereby the kitchen is isolated from the other living areas. By converting the current terrace in combination with a structural intervention, an open kitchen has been created that is directly connected to the "suite" of the house.

    The furniture that includes a kitchen island and a wood-burning fireplace will become the characteristic element in this part of the house. The outside of the extension is designed in the style of the building with a low diagonal window party and a large roof overhang. Extra daylight enters the darkest part of the room through a light shaft in the roof.

    Design: 2014

  • Student house De Kerk, Rotterdam

    The former church on Goudse Rijweg in Rotterdam was damaged by fire in the 1970s and subsequently radically converted into a student housing complex. As part of this conversion, two wings were built perpendicular to the nave. MATH has developed a vision for the complex that allows the building to be upgraded in phases and better showcases the original architectural quality of the church. This vision is being developed and implemented in phases.

    Renovation of the entrance area began in April 2018 and has since been completed. Behind the brass-clad entrance door, the former church porch is once again fully illuminated. The structural elements from the 1970s are clad in sustainable bamboo, as is the new partition featuring the mailboxes. Both elements evoke the original wooden furnishings found in a church and contrast with the white and gray tones of the original church. Fresh accent colors and a sophisticated lighting design complete the design: an almost mystical atmosphere is created in the entrance hall.

    Client: Stadswonen, Rottrerdam

    Design: 2016 - 2017

    Construction: 2018

    Contractor: Aertgeerts, Rotterdam

  • Police Station, Ridderkerk

    MATH architects was selected in 2013 to renovate Ridderkerk police station. The draft proposal with action plan was chosen as the winner in a closed competition. The renovation plan for this police station was further elaborated in the course of 2014.

    Part of the assignment was to convert the traditional office layout with corridors and rooms into a more flexible and open office concept: the "Activity-Oriented Housing". The building of architect Groosman from the 80s was excellent for this office concept due to its modular structure and a construction with load-bearing facades and a load-bearing central strip. In the new office the central strip is used as a facility zone with various places for consultation, separated by a wooden slat wall. The variable slat spacing has created open and closed spaces, each with its own layout and atmosphere. In the zones on the facades, the flex spaces are in an open arrangement, interspersed with voids. The voids to the public hall and service entrance are equipped with glass walls, so that there is visual contact but no noise nuisance. In the office area, where much attention has been paid to the acoustics, various furniture has been designed that is custom made.

    For the installations of the new hybrid climate ceilings, the roof structure has been expanded and the building has been given a new roof with overhang. The facades have been thoroughly tackled and the dated 80s character has disappeared. The original red and orange color accents have given way to steel and glass with a fresh blue color scheme.

    The police station was festively opened at the beginning of March 2016.

    ClientPolice, Rotterdam Unit, Facilities Management

    Design: 2013 - 2014

    Construction: 2015 - 2016

    Contractor: Verbakel bouwbedrijf, Poeldijk

  • Residential Complex, Heindijk

    The renovation of the plinth is part of the total renovation of the complex that consists of four residential buildings around two inner areas. The complex was in a poor state that was partly prompted by social circumstances. In addition to structural renovation, the assignment has been made to contribute to improving the social climate.

    After a thorough analysis of both the buildings and the urban development situation, a total plan was made in collaboration with landscape architect Carin Jannink. The rentable spaces in the plinth strip play an important role in this. The entrances are characterized by robustness and transparency. The storerooms are designed as circuits and accessible at all angles.

    The entrance halls of two flats will be moved to the end, so that they will be located on the inner area. The entrances are equipped with a spacious landing and equipped with spacious roof overhangs with an expressive roof edge of UNP profile. The interplay of lines responds to the stratification of the façade surfaces of the flats. At the location of the stairwells, glazed facades have been raised to the highest roof edge, giving the entrance a more impressive appearance in the whole. Openness is achieved by creating transparency in both horizontal and vertical directions.

    A color and material design has been made for the entire complex. The basis for this is a reserved color scheme in shades of gray with accents in blue and green. The balustrades are alternately executed in dark bar fences and opal glass. Green or blue glass has been used at the location of the gallery ends. The concrete bacon bands in the façade, which are so characteristic of the flats from this period, are painted fresh gray-white.

    Client: Woonbron Ontwikkelbedrijf, Rotterdam

    Design: 2008 – 2009

    Performance: 2010 - 2012

    Contractor: Suijkerbuijk Bouw & Services, Roosendaal

  • Havenlicht, Pernis

    On behalf of SOR, a foundation which deals with the housing of the elderly, we made a sketch-plan to obtain a subsidy for the construction of a “district care center” in Rotterdam-Pernis. When the grant was assigned at the end of 2003, we could continue to develop the plan.

    The assignment of the grant included one important condition: the building should be realized by the end of 2004. This meant planning, preparing and building within a timeframe of just over one year. An important aspect in the planning was to avoid complex procedures with the city-council. Although the designated area was very tight to fit the desired program, we accepted the fact the contour of the building was determined by the boundaries of the zone.

    The care center contains a general practice, a nursing practice, an office voor babies, and a number of multi-functional spaces to be used for meetings or consulting other healthcare facilities. A striking element of flexibility is the huge door that opens, depending on the desired use.

    The center has an internal connection with the Retirement Havenlicht, so the residents do not have to go outdoor to visit the surgery.

    Client: Stichting Ouderenhuisvesting Rotterdam

    Design: 2003 – 2004

    Construction: 2004

    Contractor: van de Tempel, Schiedam

  • Residential Care Facility “De Schutse”, Rotterdam

    Many care homes close. De Drie Nootenboomen, known for the successful Thomashuizen and Herbergier formulas, developed a new housing concept for seniors together with housing cooperative SOR. "De Zorgbutler" is a residential facility where self-employed older people can retain control of their own lives for as long as possible. Healthcare is always within reach, is characterized by its small scale and is organized and facilitated by healthcare entrepreneurs.

    The De Schutse residential care center has been transformed for this concept. In the apartment building from the 1960s, 123 independent and affordable apartments for the elderly have been realized. There are three basic types and there is a common living room on each floor. In the plinth there are 15 apartments for "Thomas in Rooms". Here people with a mild mental disability live independently under the watchful eye of a care entrepreneur who acts as a counselor, landlady and care provider in one.

    De Schutse continues as "the Pietje Bell house" and has been given a contemporary look. Original qualities have been placed in a new context. The existing façade has been repainted, whereby the existing layering comes into its own better. The double height of the entrance hall opens more towards the street. The dark, dated lift hall has been transformed into a light space flooded with daylight. And in collaboration with interior designer Danielle Lahou, the common traffic areas are beautifully finished and evoke the association of a luxury hotel. The joint living rooms have been carefully furnished by the care entrepreneurs themselves. After all, they are the ultimate bearers of the plan.

    Client: SOR, Rotterdam

    Design: 2015

    Construction: 2016 - 2017

    Contractor: De Vries en Verburg, Stolwijk

  • Villa, Reeuwijk

    After purchasing their dream location on the Oudkoopsedijk in Reeuwijk, near the Reeuwijk lakes, the clients approached our office for the design of a villa with a studio and workspace. The elongated terrain offered beautiful views of the polder landscape. Placing the square main volume diagonally on the site prevented the creation of a front garden, two narrow side gardens and a back garden. The garden folds around the villa, as it were, there are no residual areas. The facades on the dyke side are closed. On the rear side and on the south side, these are designed as transparent fronts. The roof has been positioned on the square footprint in such a way that two high-ceilinged bedrooms are created on the south side, with glazed façades opening onto a balcony.

    From the villa, the view is not limited to just this property, but the entire landscape is experienced without limit. Landscape architect Annemieke Fontein from Rotterdam reinforced this idea with a well-considered landscape design. In particular, the diagonal water feature starting at the terrace in the living room builds a natural bridge with the orthogonal polder landscape.

    Design: 2000 - 2002

    Construction: 2002 - 2003

    Contractor: Breedijk Waddinxveen

  • Residential house on Wittenburgerweg, Wassenaar

    The house is part of a residential block of four and was built in 1926 to a design by architect P.J. Houbolt. During the major renovation, the ground floor was substantially enlarged at the rear of the house and the floors were adjusted, so that three children's bedrooms with shared bathroom were created on the second and third floors. The master bedroom on the first floor has also been enlarged and has its own bathroom.

    The entire existing rear facade with chimney has been demolished, so that a maximum expansion towards the rear became possible. The spacious kitchen on the ground floor has a level difference, which means that it is on the ground floor with the garden. On the first floor, the extra large master bedroom is adjacent to a terrace. To make the attic bedroom accessible, a small spiral staircase has been placed at the top of the stairwell. Roof lights bring daylight into the stairwell.

    By letting the small room above the entrance lapse and making a void at this location, the hall is connected to the higher landing. This has created a spacious, well-arranged stairwell. The use of roof lights and glass openings in the floor brings daylight deep into the house.

    Although the intervention is characterized by tight detailing and modern materialization, harmony with the original architecture is achieved through the use of solid wooden fronts, overhangs and profiles as existing, the state-green color scheme in the facade and oak in the interior.

    Design: 2010

    Construction: 2011-2012

    Contractor: Meesterbouw bv Den Haag

  • Pakhuis Oosthavenkade, Vlaardingen

    This former warehouse on the Oosthavenkade must have been built at the end of the 19th century by Paul Kikkert and is a copy of the demolished Twin Kikkers warehouse. This warehouse was used in the recent decades as fishing equipment shop. The previous owner introduced a mezzanine of 4 to 9 meters in the middle of the building. This caused the replacement of a lot of the original wooden column construction by a steel frame. The hood is supported by a Philibert truss structure.

    Alongside proposals for the required building and structural upgrades, a design was developed to adapt the municipal heritage building for residential use.

    Design: 2015 - 2016

    Construction: 2017 - 2018

    Contractor: various subcontractors

  • ARZS, Salzburg

    When the Vonier family approached us with the request to give advice about their accommodation in Salzburg, we were immediately enthusiastic. The Rolls Royce restorers and collectors have a museum in Dornbirn, Austria with a collection of around 100 vintage cars. In Salzburg they wanted to convert their garage location into a museum where, among other things, the restoration of vintage cars would be central. Thus the original garage would still play a central role. The location that comprises a complete building block consists of a service garage with a few residential buildings next to it.

    The project must be able to be carried out in phases so that the amorphous existing building structure is taken into account when planning. The sketch design consists of an exhibition building that focuses on the boulevard on the east side. The garage and service area on the west side is accessed from the Wilhelminastrasse. In the exhibition area, three storage towers have been included that, in addition to storage, also serve as an exhibition of the historic classics. A super-fast lift picks up and brings the cars to and from the desired position. This gives the interior of the museum a dynamic character and determines the appearance of the building.

    During exploratory discussion with the municipality of Salzburg, the need arose to first of all make a vision for integration into the “Bahnhof Nord” master plan.

    Client: Automobil Raum Zeit Salzburg GmbH

    Design: 2014 - 2015

  • “Dienstbode”

    A new care concept based on the idea of small-scale living with personal attention and good care within a cozy environment.

    Cooperative P.Bell & Friends en Aafje Francise conceive and develop new housing concepts for the elderly. They mainly look for existing locations and residential complexes in which connection is sought with the local atmosphere and character.

    The “Dienstbode” concept has been developed for people with needs for care and support. Within a familiar home environment they are able to keep control of their care needs. 

    A meeting space is introduced at the existing locations which depending on the number of participants can variate in size per location. The space is managed by an entrepreneur, the “Dienstbode”, who can provide in demand his services to the residents. The cozy meeting space is mainly used for joint activities. For example, a large kitchen is always present in order to ensure that communal cooking and eating can be possible. 

    A modular system has been devised for such a space of approximately 100m2 which could easily be incorporated in the various locations. These spaces should have a direct relationship with a garden or a terrace, and also be easily accessible location within the existing residential complex.

    Client: Coöperatieve P.Bell & Friends

    Design: 2019

  • De Nijverheid, Leiden

    The building of the Christian Industrial School for Girls in Leiden, designed by architect J.F. Niepoth Jr., has been transformed into a residential complex. This municipally designated historic landmark, originally built in 1958, consists of a variety of rectangular and L-shaped sections. The plots in this former school building have been sold as so-called “do-it-yourself homes.” The new owners purchase a lot in the form of a shell. They each design and build their own home. A former classroom on the ground floor and part of the original hallway together form the living space of approximately 100 m².2.

    To preserve the original character of the classroom, no conventional walls were used to divide the space. A tall cabinet unit has been installed in the room, with all facilities built into it. This allows the existing rectangular space to be experienced in its entirety. The surrounding space can be arranged freely, and the five large windows, together with the cabinet unit, define the character of this loft. The 3.6-meter-high cabinet unit is finished in dark gray with wood accents. In addition to all the utilities and ample storage space, the unit includes a toilet, bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen. For guests, a box bed-style sleeping area has been created high up in the unit, featuring an internal window with a view through the living area to the outside. A movable industrial ladder staircase ensures that all cabinet space is used optimally. Color and materials accentuate the simple design.

    Design: 2020

    Construction: 2020 - 2021

    Project managment: In-Uitvoering, Zoeterwoude

    Contractor: AvS, Stompwijk

  • Renovation Country House Bloemcamplaan, Wassenaar

    This house is part of the semi-detached country houses built in 1937 on the Bloemcamplaan in Wassenaar. The building is designed in a typical 1930s country house style, built in brick and equipped with a hipped roof with tiles. 

    Characteristic is the separate kitchen next to the en-suite living room. The addition of a rear extension connects these two spaces and also creates a beautiful connection with the garden. The large sliding doors and an elongated skylight provide the living areas with ample daylight. 

    The choice of an identical masonry stone for the extension ensures that the extension merges with the existing building. 

    Design: 2019

    Construction: 2020

    Contractor: Ed van der Kooij aannemersbedrijf BV

  • Villa Bremhorstlaan, Wassenaar

    Between the new Bloemcampschool to the Bloemcamplaan and the cottages to the whites often dual citizen road in Wassenaar is a rectangular location available for a small detached villa. In 2014, created a design that effortlessly adds in the multitude of villa-typologies which are characteristic of this district.

    The vertrappende orthogonal block fits within the given contour of the built-up area which is laid down in the zoning plan. On the Southeast side is a 2 meter high wall the secretion to the adjacent school and on the street offers an electric gate access to the plot. In the zone between the wall and the crop-growing area of 4.2 meters wide is the entrance. The property consists of two layers and a basement. On ground floor are the entrance hall with staircase, living room and kitchen with orientation on the surrounding garden. On the floor are the bedrooms connected by a spacious landing. In the central reservation is the flat roof lifted up to 3.5 meters. On the highest dakstrook are PV panels. The technical installations are located in the basement, laundry room, storage and a hobby room. The cellar is accessed from the entrance hall but also has an outdoor staircase and direct access to the outside. The ground floor has a small overhang locally.

    The home is equipped with an electric heat pump with bottom changer. The heat is on the lounge issued by underfloor heating. There is a mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation system equipped with balanced (Climalevel) with heat recovery (WTW).

    The basement and the ground floor are executed in concrete, masonry walls carry the concrete upper floor. The floor is built in timber framed with flat roofs from wood joists.

    A multitude of window openings and doors are included in the full planked facade. This is a so-called open planking applied which in a fixed size system boards with small vertical open seams. The type of wood used is Middle European Douglas. The planks and slats with a semi-transparent light gray coating finished. It is in some places stripping for the glass surfaces continued in the form of standing slats. This allows the light accession, viewing and plenty of sunshine are taught. The aluminum doors and Windows are recessed in the facade and have a dark gray metallic coating.

    Design: 2014

  • Townhouse on Weteringschans, Amsterdam

    In the context of a division and modernization of a mansion in the protected cityscape of Amsterdam, an extension over three floors has been designed at the rear. In consultation with the wealth, the adjacent neighboring building has been included in the design, with the original characteristic architecture as the starting point.

  • Student Housing Prinsengrachthofje, Den Haag

    The Hague has 115 courtyards, many of which are on the list of monuments. The Prinsengrachthofje is an exploitation court from the 19th century. When Arcade People and Living took over the courtyard from the municipality, it was in neglected condition and the wooden foundation turned out to be seriously damaged; a thorough approach was needed for the rescue. At the beginning of 2007, Arcade approached our office for a feasibility study into possible types of homes in the outdated lower and upper homes. This resulted in 21 student apartments: 10 on the ground floor and 11 upstairs apartments, one of which is a video apartment located above the joint bicycle shed. By turning the stairs 180 degrees, both functional and spatial, efficient and compact homes were created that could be reached with a "normal" staircase.

    The contact with Monument Care from the initial phase has led to a long-term and fruitful collaboration, in which also the complications that fire safety (new construction requirements) entailed were dealt with. In the autumn of 2009, a start was made on the overall renovation and restoration. The demolition of the rear facades, the roofs and the ground floor gave the complex the appearance of a ruin for a long time. The houses have since been rebuilt with great care and expertise. We can safely say that the best student residences in The Hague were delivered by the end of 2010.

    Client: PWS Rotterdam

    Design: 2003 – 2004

    Construction: 2006

    Contractor: FormaBouw BV Zoeterwoude