The ongoing renovation of the Dutch Parliament complex called for its relocation to temporary accommodation. Designed by Zecc Architecten, the quarters will serve as an interim venue for the lower house of the Parliament, called the ‘House of Representatives.’
The design primarily focuses on functionality owing to the extensive security concerns of all groups involved. The challenges of conforming to the values of accessibility and security were met by adopting a resilient framework.
Public access was provided to the existing building through a curved, white canopy. In contrast to the existing bulky concrete building, the canopy stands apart because of its flowing form and net-like, woven texture created out of 3D printed recycled plastic that is 100% circular, thus highlighting sustainability as one of the central themes.
The central hall, with its high grid ceiling, unique slender columns and escalator covered in an elegant brass colour, forms a stirring point of orientation within the structure. Tall windows allow ample daylight to flow inside and create a connection with the landscape and water body outside. The white surface of the grid ceiling abstractly reflects the gentle ripples of water.
The original hall has been transformed and enlarged into a plenary chamber. The existing pearwood furniture has been reused and inserted in the space available as a ‘plug-in’. The interplay of soft greys with the vibrant furniture forms a lively, modern interior. Therefore, soft, flowing design interspersed with geometric forms of the past and present, creates an intriguing and futuristic ambience.
