Care lab

The building originally existed of three long small spans which limited the flexibility and made the circulation difficult. dmvA decided to cut through the three spaces by placing an educational care home in the middle of Care lab. Through this transformation, Care lab gets converted to a smooth network of spaces that encourages cross-pollination between the different departments. Since Care lab is used by different departments, it was important to fill in the spaces in a clever and multifunctional way. In that way Care lab has become a flexible space with multidisciplinary classrooms. 

The care home, the heart of Care lab, simulates a cozy residential home, but is still abstract. Instead of using closed walls, the care home is surrounded by an open closet system. That way Care lab becomes open and accessible. The wooden structure around the care home doesn’t only serve as a half open wall but can also serve as a storage or exposition space.

The building where Care lab is located, is built in concrete. The cool and clean concrete architecture was preserved but was complemented by the use of pinewood. By adding this warm material, a homely atmosphere is created, welcoming you when you enter the building.