Housing complexes on the quai

On the transition between Java Island and KNSM Island are two housing blocks which, because of their unity, form a gateway to the residential area.

Both buildings are clad entirely with reddish brown brick, in which a large number of identical windows have been positioned according to a rigid pattern. Because of the restraint this produces, the elevations form a visual pause in this multicoloured area. The most prominent building is the elongated, eight-storey ‘Langhaus’, which is also called ‘Hoogkade’. Here, the rhythm is interrupted by two large recesses on either side of the block.

On a patio on the north side is an entrance area with the most important access routes. On the south side, there is a communal terrace. ‘Hofhaus’ is a square block, with a restaurant and studios in the slab base. Above this are dwellings which are accessed by galleries from the inner court. ‘Hofhaus’ is sometimes referred to as ‘Hoogwerf’.
(ARCAM/BU)