The Ladder: Transformation of an industrial factory ensemble into a mixed-use ecosystem

This graduation project was part of the studio Heritage & Architecture. The chosen ensemble is located at the Hembrug terrain which forms a green peninsula with buildings of industrial heritage. The terrain used to be the heart of the fortification of the Stelling of Amsterdam and was the base for the Dutch military industry. The Ladder ensemble was part of the ammunition production factories. The ensemble consists of five interconnected factory halls with a total surface of 7500 square meters. Inside a sequence of unique industrial spaces unfolds. In the past the factory halls were as easily built as they were demolished and were completely in service of the function. Following the function and the production needs, the architecture of the factory halls can be seen as an envelope which was built around the machines.This adaptive nature of the ensemble became part of my transformation approach by proposing interventions which can be adapted and so have a more temporary nature as long as the structure can serve the purpose of its function. In my eyes the existing ensemble acts as a canvas were new interventions can be added, expand and removed through time.Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences | Heritage & Architectur