NL architects redesigns dutch rail headquarters in utrecht

NL architects redesigns dutch rail headquarters in utrecht
image © rick geenjaar / officedock
all images courtesy of NL architects

‘NS Stations’ has been redesigned by amsterdam-based firm NL architects. the netherlands’ rail headquarters stands 15 stories above the country’s largest train station, utrecht centraal. inside, the 1970s concrete structure is intact and exposed. however, the exterior was restructured with a glass skin in the late 90s. in its third iteration, the dutch design studio’s winning renovation inserts a series of thickened walls that double as storage with shelves and hooks to organize office supplies and clutter. these partitions divide the space into clusters of various sizes to accommodate compact and intimate spaces, depending on what is needed. eliminating the traditional corridor, space flows continuously, maximizing the usable floor area. without cubicles and fixed workstations, the open plan encourages collaboration. flexible desks and ergonomic chairs can be customized to best suit the employees. in order to optimize usability of this system, workshops will be held to orient workers. nine of the 15 floors will be configured essentially in the same layout, but with slight variations including a central sculptural element at each department’s elevator lobby.

sculptures identify each floor. on the sixth floor, two chairs are hung from the ceiling
image © rick geenjaar / officedock