former gearwheel factory in amsterdam converted into loft residences

former gearwheel factory in amsterdam converted into loft residences 
all images courtesy of ronald janssen architecten

a former gearwheel factory, located in the old center of amsterdam, has been transformed into twelve residences by the dutch studio of ronald janssen architecten in association with architect donald osborne. titled ‘nieuwe ridderstraat’, the original warehouse is an example of classic early 20^th century architecture featuring a sawtooth roof, and plain brick walls overgrown with ivy.

large planters replace the ivy that had overgrown the structure

under commission by real estate developer buro amsterdam, a series of 12 lofts — organized back to back — were inserted into the space. each has its own entrance from the street, defined by large sliding gates made of perforated steel. all twelve have a distinct door, which utilize various patterns found in old photographs from the factory interior. behind the gates are sheltered loggias that can be used as private gardens, or bicycle storage, as well as provide access to the interior.

perforated sliding gate

inside, is a clear and simple organization of functions. the bathroom and technical areas are bundled in a zone near the entrance. bedrooms are located on a raised loft level, with access to a view of the roof. the rest of the space is left open and undefined, exempting the kitchen, allowing for residents to assemble the interior to their own tastes and needs.

view of entrance to one of the twelve residences

much like the interior, the exterior is left as little changed as possible. only seven new openings were cut through the façade, and windows no longer necessary were evenly covered with cement. the latter are viewed as ‘scars’ and are left as indicators for the building’s rich history. existing vegetation was removed from the masonry; in its place, are large planters positioned in the street, and various roof sections planted with sedum.  

roof view with sedum covering 

interior of ‘cruger house’, the only residence to be completed fully by the architects 

stairwells, house ‘cruger’ 

loft floor with view of green roof in ‘cruger’ residence 

loft and first floor 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions  feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom