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Volumetry

The choice is made not to fully extend upwards but to provide a small-scale elevated volume at the corner, which recedes from the adjacent buildings and is aligned with the existing axes of Rodetorenkaai and Hagelandkaai. The volume on Rodetorenkaai is divided into two to reduce the building's scale impact. This division runs parallel to the Hagelandkaai axis and the axis perpendicular to Rodetorenkaai. This cut also forms the boundary of the roof volume. The corner of this volume extends all the way down to ground level, creating a fine vertical accent. By repeating the Hagelandkaai axis in the incision, the building acquires a distinct corner function.

Rhythm
A fixed rhythm is projected onto the facades to create a clear facade image. Each plane is divided into equal sequences, with the incision forming one of the sequences. The rhythm continues into the roof volume, which is defined according to the mentioned axes. This gives the building a vertical and slender appearance.
The principle of rhythm is then translated into a pure, fine concrete skeleton. The rhythmic facade connects with the surroundings through specific volume processing, cornice height, and materialization. At the same time, the building distinguishes itself sufficiently from its immediate environment, resulting in a fascinating corner building.

Dynamic Facade Functioning
The transparent south facade allows for an abundance of natural light and views of the impressive Portus Ganda. This relationship is extremely valuable but increases the risk of overheating. Wooden shutters, positioned between the concrete structure, serve as sun screens, but also provide intimacy, act as privacy screens during busy hours, and add a dynamic element to the building.
With the shutters, the building can be completely closed off, transforming it into a homogeneous translucent volume. This establishes a connection with Portus Ganda, coupled with optimal usability for the residents.
The facade is not static; it constantly changes. It is co-determined by the residents, by the moment, by the seasons, by day and night, allowing life and building to flow into one another.
Given the prominent location, we choose not to place protruding balconies but instead cut negative spaces out of the building volume. These terraces are thoughtfully positioned at the corner between Rodetorenkaai and Hagelandkaai, with the side facade of the roof volume defining the boundary between inside and outside. The terraces are made of the same wood as the shutters. This gives the building and terraces an interesting playful volumetry through an interplay of open and closed spaces, supported by the concrete structure.

Natural Materialization
We opt for a type of wood with high tannin content, which will turn silver over the years and requires little maintenance. The tactility of wood is made tangible both inside and outside. Concrete for the skeletal structure of the facade and for the side and rear facades harmonizes with the wood of the windows and shutters.
The fine front facade offers expansive views of Portus Ganda through large floor-to-ceiling windows. It is important not to break this view: transparent glass railings on the terraces ensure that the continuity of the vertical columns is maintained. The tactility of the wood, the play of light through the shutters, and the reflection of the glass complete the unique atmosphere by the water.

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^CREDITS

Status: 2024
Team: Seger Delmulle, Siebe Vannzieleghem, Arnaud Bailyu
Stabiliteit: DS Engineering