Verlengde Hereweg
In a forgotten spot on the edge of Groningen’s city centre, we designed a residential building comprising five spacious homes. The brief aligns seamlessly with our vision — and that of Groningen City Council — to densify the existing urban fabric with high-quality housing.
The site is a significant location on the Helperdiepje and the Natte Brug, which marks the transition from Groningen to Helpman. Whereas for years a blank façade of the adjacent building dominated the view, a site-specific design solution has created a multi-faceted and sculptural residential building that serves as a dignified entrance to Helpman.
The design presents itself as a robust brick volume that blends naturally into this unique, isolated pocket of the city. The entrance and outdoor spaces are sculpturally carved out of the volume, offering a contemporary nod to the rich architectural expression of the adjacent Verlengde Hereweg.
The building is constructed from a single type of red brick that harmonises powerfully with the historic context. At the front, all the flats overlook the waters of the Helperdiepje; at the rear, the flats feature spacious south-facing terraces.
Client Jan de Jonge
Location Groningen, The Netherlands
Constructor Goudstikker de Vries
Year 2023