Liste des projets

Francine Houben

  • Site : mecanoo.nl
  • Adresse : Oude Delft 203, 2611 HD Delft, the Netherlands 2611HD Delft
"Architecture must appeal to all the senses. Architecture is never a purely intellectual, conceptual, or visual game alone. Architecture is about combining all the individual elements into a single concept. What counts in the end is the arrangement of form and emotion." Francine Houben (b. 1955) began to formulate the three fundamental concepts of her architectural vision whilst studying at the Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands. Designing primarily for People, constructing spaces that are relevant to Place, and forging connections that give a building Purpose have remained consistent, underlying values to Mecanoo’s practice over the past three decades. Always seeking inspiration in the details of specific sites and locations, Francine bases her work on precise analysis coupled with an intuition built over three decades. She interweaves social, technical, playful and human aspects of space-making together in order to create a unique solution to each architectural challenge. Francine combines the disciplines of architecture, urban planning and landscape architecture in an untraditional way, with a profound sensitivity for light and beauty. Her use of materials, which often contrast in a complementary way, are the sum total of her creative expression.

Keukenhof

A grand gatehouse welcomes the large flows of, mainly international, visitors to the world famous Keukenhof park. The stepped timber roof structure of interwoven isosceles triangles leans on two volumes, forming an impressive gateway to the park.

The gatehouse houses public functions such as cash registers, an information desk and retail. Skylights in the roof create a spacious and light atmosphere in the restaurant. Mecanoo’s integral design for the entrance area includes two plazas.

A forecourt with wedge-shaped planters leads visitors from the main car park to the entrance. The gatehouse is the transition between the outside world and the world of Keukenhof and all its flowers. It provides shelter whilst creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow.Looking up, you will see Dutch skies above framed by timber triangles. Look down and you will see patterns of triangular shadows on the ground. A fence with a tulip motif marks the beginning of a journey of discovery.

The use of natural materials - wood, copper and brick, lends character to the building without being a distraction from its environment. On a beautiful spring day, the glazed facade can be opened almost entirely, blending the interior with the exterior.

Ponds with fountains provide a suitable ambiance for a pleasant day out and sitting on the spacious terraces, visitors are treated to views over the largest tulip field inside the park.

Illustration