In the Agniesiebuurt area of Rotterdam, the Zomerhof quarter (ZOHO) is being transformed from a business park into a vibrant district combining apartments, restaurants and shops. De Zwarte Hond was asked to transform the Katshoek building, designed by Hugh Maaskant, from a multi-tenant commercial building into a residential building with around 250 apartments, a lively plinth and a one-storey extension on top. In the new design, De Zwarte Hond respectfully builds on the existing qualities of the Maaskant original, with its characteristic interplay of planes and sculptural elements.

The flatness of the façade is retained, the strong sculptural profile of the balconies is reduced and the staircases and artworks are renovated. The plinth is activated, regaining its original robust quality and details. The previously introverted street scene is transformed into an open and lively living environment with maker spaces, eateries and a bicycle shed.

The generous design demonstrates the adaptability of the building, with its surplus providing the flexibility for conversion into residential accommodation. The building is crowned with a top layer of Maaskant’s design, featuring the same flat, horizontal bands, but in a different material, emphasizing the building’s unique qualities. In this way, the Katshoek building is prepared for many decades to come.
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