Start redevelopment district ‘de Wisselaar’ in Breda

Recently the construction of 66 apartments and two studios in the district ‘De Wisselaar’ in Breda (NL) officially started. The residential complexes will rise at four different locations. The construction of 30 apartments and a care facility at the fifth location at the Tielrode street started last summer. Commissioned by Laurentius van aken architects (VAA.) made the design for the new building and the interior of the five locations. This is a part of the restructuring plan of ‘de Wisselaar’ for which VAA. was also responsible. Eventually, it will be an attractive, vibrant and dynamic district in which both starters and seniors can remain living.

Lively neighborhood
The small-scale residential complexes, consisting of a total of 66 apartments and two studios, are three floors high. In this way the buildings match the existing ground-dwellings. Some garage strips and a small number of homes have made way for the new construction. For the interior of the entrances a Belgian theme was chosen. In this way the new buildings refer to the existing Belgian street names in the district. The omnidirectional orientation of the residential complexes will result in a vibrant environment with more social control. The new building improves the flow in the neighborhood and makes it possible for starters and seniors to continue living in their neighborhood. Residents who need care can rely on the new care facility at Tielrode street.

Care and social amenities
The residential building at Tielrode street consists of 30 apartments for people with a care requirement. It consists of two to four storeys and a care facility on the ground floor for care and social amenities. Seniors can go there for guidance, support or care. For youngsters a learning and study location and a studio for Radio Luctor will be included. The various social functions of this facility are brought together by the interior design. The new building takes the place of an impoverished shopping strip and will provide a viable and attractive environment.

Limited housing demolition
VAA. is also responsible for the restructuring plan. The existing qualities of the neighborhood are used. The typological urban main structure is retained and strengthened in a number of points. Therefore, the demolition of homes is limited and the relationship with the immediate surroundings of the neighborhood will be improved.

Completion
The construction at the Tielrode Street will be ready in the summer of 2011. The completion of the remaining four sites is scheduled for late 2011.