The Black Pearl in Rotterdam

The reconstruction of an old building in Rotterdam, transforming it into a studio & house has resulted in an architectural spectacle in which Studio Rolf.fr have been experimented with space and time. The new metal window frames sticking out in some spots, form a sharp contrast with the existing but freshly painted black facade and it's old windows that have been painted black as well. 

On the inside all storey floors and all the walls have been taken out reducing the interior to one big communicating space. Just as in the facade the traces of the past are visible everywhere in the interior as well. On the walls an old banister and holes of wooden floor beams reveal the partitioning of the former house. The new house and living space has a completely new interior arrangement. The ground level of the house contains a big workshop on the inside and a bamboo garden on the outside. Above a connection of half open functions is created; living, cooking and eating, sleeping, a bathroom and walk-in cabinet. On the top level the old tile roof has been removed to make way for a greenhouse. The plants however are outside on the roof terrace while in the greenhouse a jacuzzi is placed providing a terrific view over Rotterdam while taking a bath.

The facade is designed in collaboration with Zecc Architects, and by the way the house is for sale, if anyone is interested.