Features and seminars

Reflections on the Design of Facades

Dirk Somers - Bovenbouw

Architectural history and current events go hand in hand at Bovenbouw. Using historical examples and contemporary projects, Dirk Somers tells a story about his relationship with facades.

Every element in the facade is carefully weighed by Bovenbouw. What kind of plasticity and rhythm suits this building, in this environment? How should the gallery or passage take shape? A good illustration of the unprecedented precision that the office is able to achieve is the design for the Cadix residential building in Antwerp. Within the concave facade surfaces, the motif of the central column supporting a lintel is repeated. Behind this there are alternating double windows and loggias. This motif is also reflected in the slightly recessed plinth, with higher glass facades. The result is a street wall that is as calm as it is subtle and convincing from every perspective.

Seminar in Dutch

bovenbouw.be