Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten

Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - WindowsFort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, Brick, FacadeFort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, BrickFort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, Brick, FacadeFort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - More Images+ 12

Text description provided by the architects. As a graphic design agency we already had a long cooperation with Cortina, a wholesale in gift items, before they asked us to design their new headquarters. It was our first architectural assignment. 

Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, Brick
© Sjaak Henselmans

Fort Cortina is built on the premises of the NDSM-wharf, a former shipyard located on the banks of the river IJ in Amsterdam. In this harsh environment we designed an office and warehouse building that looks like a Morrocan fort. A monolithic structure, rough on the outside with metallized brick walls and smooth on the inside patios that are lined with cedar wood.

Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, Brick, Facade
© Sjaak Henselmans

The dynamic lay-out of the facades is a reflection of the different rooms that vary in height and size. A result of our intention to make an exciting interior with small and big views over the river. Rooms to hide and rooms to expose.

Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Image 9 of 17
© Sjaak Henselmans

A commercial building that almost fits like a home. The patios at the hearth of the building are inspired on a monastery tour. A space for reflection and a way to give light to the interior and to create outdoor recreation areas with footpaths on the roof, which is planted with sedum for an optimal indoor climate control.

Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten - Windows, Door, Facade, Courtyard
© Sjaak Henselmans

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Project location

Address:Tt. Vasumweg 150, Noord 1, 1033 Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Fort Cortina / Karelse & den Besten" 20 Sep 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/169637/fort-cortina-karelse-den-besten> ISSN 0719-8884

© Sjaak Henselmans

Cortina 堡垒 / Karelse & den Besten

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