Based on redefined old-school principles, an urban development plan was drawn up for Holtenbroek, a CIAM residential area in Zwolle. Besides having a dated housing stock, the major problem with these residential areas is the definition of boundaries between public, collective and private spaces. On the other hand, many of the qualities of the area stem from the CIAM principles of light, air and space, giving the neighbourhood a pleasant and open character.
A stark demarcation of the transition between public space and the new clusters is essential to the purpose of the plan. This is why all residences are situated on a plinth that defines the cluster boundary. It is a physical boundary that preserves the open character of the area. This plinth dovetails with the existing residential typology of the Trapjeswijk and resounds with the different types of new residences in the area.
The clusters are built up from different types of houses, each placed in a uniform volume on the plinth. All residences face the public space and on this side have an architectonic element that defines the direction of the residences in the cluster. These concrete demarcations are arranged in different ways, as balcony, loggia or entrance.