MEELPAKHUIS
LEIDEN, NETHERLANDS
date 2017-present
client Ab van der Wiel, Meelhattan B.V.
program residential
surface 4 950 m²
status under construction
design team Studio Akkerhuis Architects
consultants Piet Oudolf, Lola Landscape, Pieters Bouwtechniek, LBP Sight, Vlampunt
The Meelmagazijn is a significant building in the Meelfabriek complex. It is located on the central square along the Singel Canal, creating important dialogues and views with and of its surroundings. The remarkable concrete structure of the original building includes columns that make up the most iconic element of the building- a pillared hall.
The new project emphasizes these emblematic elements by making them visible from the outside. The existing brick facade is dematerialized to give way to a fully glazed volume, which fits into the concrete structure. Three storeys have been added to the existing building, creating a strong dialogue between the old concrete and the new intervention in glass.
The vertical circulation of the building is organized around a pre-existing metal spiral, which had been previously used to transport various materials through the building.
The building houses spacious, high-end lofts. Their layout is designed on an open plan, offering multi-oriented views and balconies. Inside, the presence of concrete columns organizes the different living spaces.
The ground floor and the first level host commercial spaces, extending the public space to the canal waterfront while offering pleasant terraces.