Experimental Atelier

Experimental Atelier in Rotterdam is a painter’s atelier that doubles as guest house.

The domestic part of the atelier can be closed off with the double-height curved curtain.

The curved staircase binds the space together both horizontally, carrying the curve through wall and curtain, as well as vertically, threading all levels into a unified whole.

The stair curve maximises atelier wall area.

The floor of the sous-terrain was made with Belgian bluestones reclaimed from a nearby church and assembled into a mosaic.

The bathroom floor, made from reclaimed mooring poles from the Port of Rotterdam, was designed like a roof terrace, allowing water to pass through.

We used the project to make small-scale experiments with material re-use, natural building materials and the assembly of affordable and commonly available building products.

Natural wall renders such as clay in the main space and hand-polished lime plaster (tadelakt) in the bathroom are breathable materials that help regulate indoor humidity.

A modulating 4m grid provides flexible unit configurations without fixed room sizes. This single structure accommodates diverse co-habitation models, from traditional families to co-parenting, shared living, or students, allowing for better engagement with varied target groups.

The higher atelier space is oriented towards the street, making the art and process visible to passers-by while guarding the resident’s privacy.

The atelier front was restored in line with the historic facades of the street, making it seem like it was always there.