Superuse Studios - Maasboulevard 100

Demolishing a building costs a lot of energy, so Superuse’s strategy is to reuse an entire building wherever possible. Here, we do not only mean renovating, but we often work on a complete change of function. Of course with the preservation of as many valuable parts of the old building as possible.

The supporting structure is always the starting point. Within the preconditions of load-bearing capacity and dimensions, we look for the optimal layout for the required programme. Where necessary, we make breakthroughs for the benefit of routing or add floors if the height allows. Often, a new entrance provides better access to all functions and creates a place that can give an identity to the new use.

We keep all installations for heating and electricity separate from other built-in parts according to the layer model of Stewart Brand, so that maintenance is easy and future changes are possible. By thinking in terms of layers with different lifespans, we literally create a layered building. The readability of the functions is enhanced, because by making the technology and the supporting structure visible, the flows (power lines, electricity, water) become more legible. If necessary, zoning of climate zones can contribute to strategic insulation instead of the entire building.

In Art Zaanstad it is easy to see how the column structure has determined the layout of the space and the size of the moveable exhibition walls. The colour scheme of the walls and structure has been maintained and expanded with a quiet palette of mainly black and white tones. The new entrance provides a clear public entrance.