Jan van Foreest
The Jan van Foreest building, once a rather dreary postal sorting centre in Utrecht, The Netherlands, has been transformed into a vibrant residential complex. Developer MidNed saw the potential in the old structure and commissioned the architectural firm StrandNL to not only convert the building but also to give it a refreshing new look and feel while respecting its curves.
Overlooking the Kruisvaart canal, 218 micro-apartments were built, all of them with a highly (energy-)efficient finishing grade. A fine example of modern architecture, preserving the link with a functional past, all made possible with the help of Reynaers Aluminium windows and doors.
Architectural focus
Architect Jelle Hekstra of StrandNL aimed to preserve the building's original curves and lines while introducing a lively and sparkling expression. "We wanted to honour the building's original curves through the alignment that also characterised the original, but with a compelling expression", Hekstra explains. Hence the choice of glazed stone strips in three different green shades, specially produced for the Jan van Foreest project with various gloss levels. The custom-made stone strips reflect the light to accentuate the building’s curves and have a defining impact on its appearance.
The contrasting black lines, the dark aluminium window frames and the anthracite-grey plinth make the façade even more pronounced. The building rises above the Kruisvaart and manages to stand its ground in a place dominated by intensive infrastructure and high-rise buildings. You simply cannot miss it when walking around in Utrecht’s Dichterswijk, or Poets' District.
Sustainable windows and doors
The renovation features Reynaers Aluminium window systems, generally known for their durability and design flexibility. In this case, functional ConceptSystem 77 solutions ensure high thermal insulation and security while maintaining a sleek, modern look that complements the building's dynamic façade. On the ground floor, the circular entrance hall reveals the playful details of this unique urban architectural achievement, contrasting the green and black exterior, with yellow details inside. ConceptSystem 77 doors stand as a beacon of sustainable sturdiness, ready for long-lasting and intensive use.
Maximising sense of space
One of the challenges in the project, according to architect Jelle Hekstra, was the building's substantial floor heights. To optimise the expansive vertical space, StrandNL designed a multifunctional living unit that integrates a kitchen, bathroom, and ample storage, topped with a bed. “We wanted to give residents a feeling of harmony”, he continues, “which is why the furniture was crafted to mirror the building's external rounded forms, reinforcing the architectural coherence between the interior and exterior. Round shapes expand the field of vision." This design approach visually connects the inside and outside, enhancing the overall spatial experience for residents.
The project not only uplifted a once-dull building but also created a modern living space that maximises both form and function, reflecting the evolving urban landscape of Utrecht. Once again, Reynaers Aluminium leaves its mark on a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban landmark.
Used systems
Involved stakeholders
Fabricator
- Wijmoco Geveltechniek
