Cellar art space

The spatial layers

Pacing the elongated room:

A salesroom and former bowling alley are transformed into a two-storey studio. The salesroom is fully stripped out and refurbished. An opening is made at the top of the stairs in the shop, leading to the bowling alley and connecting the two spatial elements.

The bowling alley: In the 1930s, the load-bearing pillar system in the cellar was exchanged for a new system of beams along the sidewalls. This way, the cellar emerged into a slightly sloped 40 metre long room that was used as a bowling alley.

The ceilings near the entrance are just 2.14 metres in height. The spatial concept is reinterpreted following two principles. New pilasters made from old bricks define the room, outlining the original composition of the façade on the inside. In the area where the ceiling projects out, the voids between the pilasters are filled and sealed. These two spatial approaches determine two functions and uses for the room.

The front part of the room is used as a sculpture studio. In order to create a more generous space, the floor level is lowered into the ground like a large basin. Standing in the lowered area translates to being in a hall with generous ceilings. Standing above, the eye is drawn towards the lower level, thus overlooking the lacking ceiling height. A uniquely designed balustrade is arranged around one side of the basin.

The far end of the room is used as an exhibition space for sculpture. The new pillars that line the room create a rhythmic pace for the space, preserving the flowing feeling of the room.