pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
all images courtesy of pena architecture

 

 

 

rotterdam-based studio peña architecture has converted the former kralings museum into the luxury apartment building, ‘casa K’. located at the hoflaan, rotterdam in the netherlands, the transformed structure contains three separate dwellings with a communal entrance and an elevator that offers access to the upper floors. on the street level, a double height space has been renovated with the living spaces flowing outside onto the back garden. re-using and adapting the existing structure, the major challenge was to turn the windowless basement and ground floor into one unified space, while still adhering to the city’s preservation requirements. the architects were involved in the entire process, right down to the detailed design of the cabinetry, lighting, materials and color scheme.

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
the wooden cube feature has a glass floor

 

 

a key element is a walnut cube piece, which begins on the ground floor and protrudes through the first floor living room, forming a raised platform. surrounded by walkable glass, the feature helps to divide the open-plan space, offering a clear distinction between the front and rear. the stairs to the basement are accessed from here also, while the glass enables light to filter down. the use of walnut as a material combined with black has been applied throughout the apartment, unifying an overall sleek and refined aesthetic. 

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
looking from diner area towards the stairs and living space

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
the living room opens out to a  garden on the ground floor

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
view from the dining area towards the kitchen

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
the kitchen

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
looking back towards the living room from the kitchen

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
view of the kitchen on the ground floor

 

 

pena architecture converts museum to luxury apartment casa K
the wooden cube also forms the staircase and has a glass ceiling

 

 

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