Transformation with Optopping: New Apartments at Gallery Flat in The Hague
In The Hague, a striking gallery flat designed by architect Piet Zanstra is undergoing a contemporary transformation. Through topping the existing building will be expanded with a new layer of modern apartments. This intervention increases urban density in a smart and sustainable way, without losing the iconic features of the original design.
Topping as a Forward-Looking Compaction Strategy
The project includes the addition of 14 new apartments on top of the existing building. The new layer — a modern 'crown' — has 10 apartments per floor and introduces a horizontally oriented structure that stands out visually from the existing structure. Thanks to this topping the existing space is used to the maximum, while at the same time adding extra living quality in an urban area where space is scarce.
A New Architectural Layer in the City
The extension forms a contemporary and recognisable silhouette on top of the original flat. The new top layer is designed as a horizontal volume that subtly contrasts with the existing architecture. A robust roof structure supports the topping and highlights the new highlight of the building.
Harmony between Old and New
The design of the topping is a tribute to Piet Zanstra's original architecture. The horizontal roofline and rhythmic railings of the new layer refer directly to the existing design. Home zone transformation ensures a coherent integration in which historical quality and contemporary housing go hand in hand.
Sustainable Urban Development through Transformation
At home transformation is not only aesthetic and functional, but also sustainable. By building on existing structures, the use of materials is minimized and the urban surface is used more efficiently. Topping thus offers a valuable alternative to new construction locations outside the city.
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