Schiedam (NL) runner-up
Joost van Rooijen (NL)
Studio Komma,
Maarten Thewissen (NL)
Copernicusstraat 163
Redmer Weijer (NL)
2561VT The Hague,
architects
the Netherlands T. +31 629572757 mail@studiokomma.nl www.studiokomma.nl
96 A new start with old genes Team point of view In order to revive Schiedam’s inner-city, the river Schie is used as a platform for urban interventions. This is accomplished by a customizable system of pontoons and containers. The pontoon system works bottom-up and top-down. It reacts to the needs of inhabitants or can be used by the municipality. By facilitating activities along the Schie, it makes the river once again the heart of the city and a catalyst for urban transformation. The VROM-site accommodates the pontoon concept by offering a customization site and an open plan hall. The project achieves a dynamic environment that facilitates working spaces as easily as big events. The Koemarkt square is radically cleaned up. The existing kiosks are assembled in a pavilion, creating an intimate square focused on the river. Jury point of view The project’s strength lies chiefly in the analysis, based on the higher scale-level of the river Schie and Schiedam city centre. Proposing small interventions at numerous places along the river Schie incorporates the Europan site into a larger structure. Moreover, with the proposal for Koemarkt, the designers succeed in creating an intimate square. A wider flight of stairs makes the River Schie more accessible, while a similar stairway on the opposite side of the river integrates it with Koemarkt. The connection between Koemarkt and the VROM site is improved.