Designing new buildings in existing urban areas is usually a puzzle because of the quirks and obstacles to be overcome; these can however be a source of inspiration. The existing built-up areas on the edge of the centre of Utrecht offered good clues for a masterplan for two hundred dwellings, two large schools and the layout of the outdoor space. More important still was the theme of the hidden oasis that is such a feature of Utrecht. The city has many surprising informal enclaves both in built-up areas and in urban green spaces. These spots are urban but not paved – they have an identity of their own, and above all, are hidden.

A visitor needs to know the paths, alleys or gateways in order to find them. With this as the underlying theme, the aim was to create a hidden interior world for the Vondelparc residential area. The assignment thus presented an opportunity for integrating parking facilities with the footpaths and green areas.