GROWING URBAN HABITATS
West 8 | Borneo Sporenburg
Netherland | 2006? | Project Link
OUTDOOR ROOMS
...model may be seen to orientate the city
towards the individual primarily, with
the ÔcommunityÕ as a secondary
focus. However, by eliminating the Ôsemi-
publicÕ mediating zones of private gardens
and parking spaces the house is brought into a
very direct relation with the street, overlooking it
directly and with front doors opening at one step
onto the public realm.
West 8Õs masterplan included 2300 units, demanding a 30%-50% ÒvoidÓ in each of the
individual homes. Architects developed new typologies in which a small patio provided
daylight penetration and personal outdoor space. While the patios are a domain for
individual expression and privacy, they also make an indirect connection to the street and
the quays. In the rough and open harbour landscape, the patios offer an unexpected and
introverted world.
Research By: Catherine
