1:200 concept model of De Draaier: a white residential tower next to a black steel hall structure

De Draaier

Project
De Draaier
Client & Architect
BETA office for architecture and the city
Location
Amsterdam, NL
Materials
wood (varied), PVC and XPS foam
Concept Model
1:200

De Draaier and De Lasser, located in Amsterdam's Oostenburg district, are residential designs by BETA office, created as part of the neighbourhood’s transformation in the city centre. Rooted in the area's rich industrial history, the buildings blend a crisp and elegant aesthetic with elements that echo the site's rugged past, such as water towers and concrete layering and joinery.

model created during a tenure at BETA office for architecture and the city. Ownership credited to the firm.

  • Close-up of the De Draaier model's gridded facade with projecting balcony slabs 1/5
  • The square openings at the top of the facade, seen head-on 2/5
  • The tower with its horizontal balconies, three-quarter view 3/5
  • The De Draaier model seen from street level, between the two neighbouring volumes 4/5
  • Top view down the facade onto the steel trusses of the hall 5/5

The conceptual model highlights the main inspirations behind the design, emphasizing the play between simplicity and depth. There is a clear contrast between the vertical base and the square openings at the top, accentuated by simple yet deep cut-outs. The horizontal balcony elements, designed with maximum transparency to provide unobstructed views of the surroundings, are prominently showcased in the model as an integral part of the project's concept. Constructed primarily from PVC, the model uses minimal glue, relying on various joints to connect the pieces. This thought-out approach highlights the structural concepts and the integrity of the design.

It was essential for the small building to be perceived as a cohesive whole while still showcasing the finesse and sharp lines of its black metal facade. The choice of colours was deliberate, aimed at clearly distinguishing different design elements and existing situation. The careful selection of tones creates a harmonious balance of greys, staying true to the materials chosen by the architect.

The steel hall structure with the white tower behind it, at eye level
1:200 competition model in white and translucent acrylic, photographed against black