reversible vitrine on a state monument

To design an extension for the Royal Academy of Art without a programme, so the space has maximum flexibility. Based on an earlier implemented structural plan it was decided to create a roof extension on the young state monument on the Prinsessegracht, designed by Buijs and Lürsen.

The division of the education in masters and bachelors on the one hand created an increased need for spaces that can be subdivided, and on the other hand for the flexible use of these spaces. The location on the roof of the young state monument led to the need for the extension to be completely reversible.

The world is rapidly changing and becoming more transparent under the influence of the internet and social media. The presentation of art to the rest of the world belongs to the daily practice of the artist, which coheres with the chosen concept of a vitrine. A steel-glass roof extension that makes both the interior and exterior world accessible for the eye.

The roof extension consists of a prefabricated building kit in steel and glass. This enables disassembling in the future, without damaging the state monument. The glass facade has a print that is inspired by the logo of the Academy. This prevents from excessive sun radiation and keeps the building cool, even in the hottest summer.

The volume has been placed on the roof of the monument as a single object. Congruously a window structure has been chosen that continues the rhythm of the monument’s facade. The parts that can be opened are floating in the glass like paintings. The interior space can be subdivided per 1.8m and is completely adaptable to the user’s needs.

The position of the roof extension near the restaurant and central hub of the Academy strengthens the uniformity in the uni-location. The transparent facade enhances the involvement of the KABK in the skyline of The Hague.