The urban structure of Hilversum has been dispersed and fragmented, with the result that a number of open spaces have arisen in the city. For one of these spaces, in the Oude Torenstraat, Mecanoo has designed a building incorporating offices, commercial spaces and dwellings.
The building has a curved façade, thus continuing the ring around the church and restoring the old connection between the church and the former cemetery running along the building. The two side elevations of the building are made of raw brick work, with the joints hanging down between the bricks like beards. The curved façade on the Oude Torenstraat is made of copper.
A four-story building is hidden behind it. Three layers of offices and dwellings are situated on a first floor with commercial premises, a car park, storerooms and entrances. The business units are at the front of the building and protect the patio and dwellings at the rear from the bustle and noise of the city. The offices on the top floor are somewhat smaller so that the façade recedes a little.
The interior walls and the floor of the patio are faced with wood, which gives the indoor garden a warm appearance. The wooden walkways in the patio provide access to the dwellings. The first three dwellings on each storey are set slightly back from the access walkway, thereby preserving the inhabitants’ privacy.