Barcode Architects

In the redevelopment area 'In de Bogaard' in Rijswijk, we designed the high-quality residential tower The Orchard II. In the heart of the district, the building occupies a prominent place on Steenvoordeplein, which will become an intimate town square in the future. In the coming years, the area will develop from a monotonous shopping area into a lively part of the city. The master plan design focuses on the human dimension and the creation of a green residential area where existing and new residents can meet.

Barcode Architects responds to this ambition with an all-sided and distinctive design. With its sculptural, 54-metre high volume, The Orchard II makes a bold gesture towards its surroundings. On the east side, the building forms the entrance to In De Bogaard, making it an important link on the axis to the railway station. On the west side, The Orchard II will be located right on the vivid city square.

Van Rossum Raadgevende Ingenieurs | MJb Groep | Peutz BV | De Dakdokters |

CasaNova contains a rich residential program with 116 dwellings, from more compact apartments in the low-rise block to spacious tower apartments and exclusive penthouses with large outdoor spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure optimal daylight entry and spectacular views in all the tower apartments.

The vertical orientation in the façade accentuates the slender design. Red-brown travertine panels give the tower a warm and powerful appearance all around. Towards the top of the tower, the panels have gradually broader smooth-edged surfaces. These elements reflect the sunlight, creating a shifting appearance throughout the day and making the top of the tower seem to disappear into the sky.

CasaNova is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.

📸 Frank Hanswijk

| ABT bv |

“Within the city boundaries, densification through high-rise is a favorable option, but anonymous volumes where residents don't know each other should be avoided. With CasaNova, we want to create a three-dimensional part of the city, where people live healthily, neighbours know each other and there is a pleasant atmosphere at ground level. The design principles used in this project, set an example for the new Rotterdam High Rise vision.” — Barcode Architects’ partner Caro van de Venne

The all-sided building brings new energy to the Maritime District, which is rapidly transforming from an anonymous office district to a vibrant urban area. CasaNova activates the corner on the Wijnhaven and forms an important link on the new walking route between the Oude Haven and the Museumpark, via the Markthal, Leuvehaven and the Witte de Withstraat.

📸 Frank Hanswijk

| ABT bv |