Groot Hartje is situated on a complex location, wedged between the PSV soccer stadium, the railway and the fine-meshed neighbourhood Philipsdorp. The ensemble forms a new connection between the centre and the Strijp S development area, and fits in well with the various scale levels of the surroundings. An old plane tree on the corner has been carefully integrated into the urban ensemble and the green Benjamin is a nod to the Philipsdorp. This creates a high density of homes in an urban living environment with a relaxed green character.
How we create a recognizable place
The volume connects to the medium-rise residential buildings next to the stadium. The strong urban wall along the street shields a quiet inner area. By positioning and compartmentalizing the three separate building parts, we ensure peaceful gardens and a clear scale. The existing entrance and exit of the stadium parking garage are integrated into the ensemble. In addition, there are four special city homes, the Benjamin, at the head, which mark the connection with the adjacent small-scale Lijsterbesbuurt.
Turbulent environment, balanced facade
Along the facades, we have created variation and coherence with minimal interventions. But also peace. This busy environment requires that. And we do that, for example, with subtly recessed surfaces in the brickwork, horizontal concrete bands in part of the plan and a regular distribution of the balconies.
The ceramic Benjamin
The townhouses at the head towards the Lijsterbesbuurt have facades of green ceramic. With two shades of green, we create the pattern of a barcode on the facade, which continues in the fencing around the garden. The barcode codes for '040 De Jonghlaan,' a contraction of the Eindhoven area code and the street name. At the same time, the barcode refers to the digitalization of the most characteristic Eindhoven industry. From city of light to high-tech campus.
Three landscapes in one
S&P Landscape Architecture created three different landscapes within the plan. The public park garden on the corner is enclosed with an elegant fence and becomes a flowery, lush environment around the old plane tree. The residents' garden one level higher has a glass greenhouse, which allows residents to reach the deck. There is enough space here for the residents to use together as they see fit. The third landscape runs up the facades with climbing plants to sedum roofs where water is collected and retained.
Sustainability
Despite the complex urban context, important sustainable interventions have been made in Groot Hartje. Green roofs and facades help with water collection and provide some cooling. PV panels on the roof contribute to the energy supply. The existing large plane tree on the corner has been retained and integrated into the design, which adds both ecological and spatial value. In addition, the collective inner gardens offer space for greenery and meeting within the high urban density.
Pleasant living
Residents Joost & Tess put it this way: “We think the design of our own residential building is very successful, the green townhouses are a nice special feature and ensure recognisability. The common areas are beautifully and pleasantly finished, which provides a bit of extra character and space for meeting. Although the building is located near two busy roads, the layout with a communal park at the front ensures a quiet and secure entrance. It is also handy that the entrances to the bicycle shed do lead directly to the cycle path behind the building. We are very happy with our apartment and we live there with great pleasure. Thanks to the large windows from floor to ceiling, we have a very light home and we can enjoy the view of the city every evening. We are also very happy with the large balconies, where we like to sit outside on warmer evenings."
