a couple of owners of two jaguar models have asked architecture firm bureau fraai to design a garage where they can store their cars safely, and also showcase them in an elegant way. the architects have come up with a private showroom concept to be located within the backyard of the clients’ main house in amsterdam. formed as a distinct black volume with an automatic car lift, the garage is completely visible from the residence. 

bureau fraai designs a private car showroom and tops up a townhouse in amsterdam 1

exterior of jaguar showroom
all imaes courtesy of bureau fraai

 

 

the showroom by bureau fraai stores the two jaguars, stacked on top of each other, with the use of an automatic car lift. the structure features a large steel plate window, framing the client’s favourite model as if it were a painting to be enjoyed from within their own living room. the characteristic design of the garage is enhanced by integrating a custom-designed grill with the jaguar logo, referring to classical models from the car brand’s history.

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besides the showroom, bureau fraai has also designed a matching black roof extension for the main residence. the roofing connects to the two different roof heights of the neighbouring buildings. here, two big steel plate framed windows enclose the interior of the top floor living and working area, creating an edward hopper like appearance when observed from the exterior.

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both window frames also serve a second purpose; the front one extends into the interior as a desk while framing the view to the neighbourhood. meanwhile, the rear one facing the roof terrace and garden evolves into a bench where one can relax and enjoy the sky. in contrast with the black exterior shell, the interior has a warm and light character. both the ceiling and the connected built-in wall cabinet are made from wood, with clear matching partitioning and refined detailing.

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bureau fraai designs a private car showroom and tops up a townhouse in amsterdam 6

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bureau fraai designs a private car showroom and tops up a townhouse in amsterdam 11

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bureau fraai designs a private car showroom and tops up a townhouse in amsterdam 10

 

 

project info:

 

 

name: black gems
architects: bureau fraai
location: amsterdam, the netherlands

 

 

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: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom