V8 Architects

The Spike

The area around the Bliekstraat in Spijkenisse is undergoing a major transition; from characterless parking lots and office buildings, to a vibrant station district with a nice mix of living, working, and recreational spaces. Transformations, new buildings, and an entirely new urban design will provide a new experience between Spijkenisse metro station and the city centre. The Spike will deliver 121 new homes and office space at the edge of this new neighborhood.

A panoramic courtyard

The configuration of buildings at Bliekstraat 5 is unique due to its versatility. Each of the four edges of the plot presents a different approach; a bicycle street, a fruit-tree path, a promenade, and the central park border the plan. The positioning of the tower and low-rise buildings responds to this versatility. At a height of seven meters, a continuous facade band encircles the complex. This band is supported by pillars in the facade and, along the promenade and park, by ornamental columns. The design emphasizes a strong and formal base to strengthen the urban character of the location. Simultaneously, the plot has the scale of a city block, creating space for a courtyard. The highlight and heart of the plan is the panoramic view over the lush park, visible through the colonnade.

Variety within the system

The plan starts with the creation of a rectangular, semi-underground parking garage. This serves as the foundation for two building systems: one for the high-rise and one for the low-rise block surrounding the courtyard. Within the strict construction system, the tower consists of three parts, each with its own typologies, resulting in a wide range of apartments with 2 or 3 bedrooms. The low-rise buildings employ a lightweight construction method for the duplex homes. Together, they bring liveliness to the courtyard. The elevated ground floor creates distance from the street level, making it pleasant to live and work in this urban environment.

A sustainable urban block, with ornaments

In collaboration with a devoted team of advisors, and in consultation with builders, we have mapped out a path toward a building that is simultaneously urban, layered, and rich in details. The continuous facade bands of polished concrete are visible from afar, and up close, you can count the tiny stones! This beautiful spot in Spijkenisse deserves attention.

Less visible but essential for the users is the integration of measures regarding nature inclusivity, energy use, the energy system (WKO), and water management. The latter, in particular, is deeply embedded in the DNA of the plan. The courtyard and rooftops are designed with integrated greenery and water retention systems. A sedum herb mat on the low-rise buildings is not only pleasant to look at but also beneficial for butterflies and insects.