Transformation of Shopping Center into a Liveable Urban District, De Stede, The Hague (NL)

De Stede The Hague: Transformation of a Shopping Center into a Liveable Urban District

At a time when housing and sustainability are becoming increasingly urgent, transformation a crucial role in urban development. In the project The City in The Hague, Urban Climate Architects shows how an existing shopping center can be transformed into a livable, safe and inclusive living environment.

Urban Densification with Quality

Housing in Dutch cities is becoming increasingly scarce. Transformation projects such as De Stede, show how we can find space for new homes within the existing city structure, without breaking into the surrounding greenery. In this case, an unattractive logistical back of the shopping center was transformed into a vibrant city front with 90 social rental homes.

A parking garage was integrated under the houses, which promotes efficient use of space and removes the car from the streets — a clear advantage for the quality of life in the neighborhood.

Transformation as an Engine for Urban Renewal

An important starting point of this project was to create coherence with the existing building. By applying architectural elements that match the environment, this ensures transformation for natural integration. The appearance of the neighborhood is enhanced, while the whole thing feels like a logical extension of the urban fabric.

Sustainable and Safe Urban Living

The design focuses on daylight, sight lines and social safety. In doing so, De Stede symbolises how transformation of existing buildings contributes to a safer, healthier and more pleasant city life. This project shows how housing, sustainability and quality of life can go hand in hand.