Building within existing structures

Two examples

While the building fabric of Wilhelminian architecture was largely neglected and left to decay under post-war modernism, nowadays it has regained a high regard due to its generous spatial volumes and its delicate attention to detail. The aim is to refurbish and return these spaces to their original character, at the same time adapting the spatial arrangements and their purposes to modern requirements. It is essential to unveil the poetic balance of hand-crafted details and to restore them following a gentle approach. The effect of the result relates closely to the level of sensitivity when introducing new materials. Each of the two examples comprises an extensive refurbishment including its sanitary facilities. Missing stucco elements and door handles are replenished in one of the flats. The flooring is stripped in a manner gentle to the substance so as to preserve the patina finish. The occupant of one of the flats was inclined to apply an oil-based varnish that brings out the natural structure of the timber, while another occupant favoured a matt finish.