Text description from the architects. For the municipality of Haarlem, we developed a design for the temporary accommodation of around 200 Ukrainian refugees. This project is based on our research conducted for the Dutch Real Estate Association (Rijksvastgoedbedrijf) and published as ‘Woonkwaliteitsplan FLEXwonen’. It provided us with a unique opportunity to translate theoretical insights into practical solutions and to explore and implement the potential of high-quality, flexible housing.
The chosen site, an industrial area surrounded by highways, railways and large parking lots, posed a major challenge. Despite this, we focused on creating a welcoming living environment by orientating the homes around a shared courtyard. Partially enclosed to provide shelter while maintaining a connection to the surroundings, this courtyard is at the heart of the project. It provides residents with a space to relax and socialize, ensuring they feel connected to their surroundings while enjoying a sense of privacy.
The temporary accommodation itself is designed with a strong focus on sustainability and circular economy. A total of 86 accommodations have been created, most of which are 24m², with some larger 48m² designed for families. The accommodation blocks consist of three storeys with a stepped configuration that is visually interesting and breaks up the building mass. These accommodations are constructed using lightweight timber frame construction, eliminating the need for pile foundations. The units are fully demountable and reusable, with steel beams on precast concrete slabs serving as the foundation. The facades were prefabricated off-site and partially completed on site, with the joints between units carefully concealed to create a seamless appearance.
A key feature of the project is the circular common room, which plays an important role in fostering a sense of community among residents. Made from 80% reused materials, this space is strategically positioned between the public area and the courtyard, offering both transparency and privacy. When the weather is good, the common room can be opened up, making the outdoor area an extension of the indoor area. The design is fully modular and demountable, so it can be easily moved and rebuilt after five years. Inside, different zones are designed for different activities, such as communal dining, celebrations and relaxation.
The interior design of the common room is sourced from second-hand shops in Haarlem and Scheveningen. It underlines the circular nature of the project while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. In addition, the topography of the site was used to enhance the design. A central depression acts as a water buffer in heavy rain and as a play area in dry weather. Thoughtful lighting ensures that the environment remains inviting and comfortable even in the evenings.
This project demonstrates that temporary housing can be both functional and high quality. Despite the challenges presented by the site, we have sought to create a living environment that is welcoming, sustainable and community-focused. It demonstrates that it is possible to provide valuable and comfortable housing for those in need even in difficult circumstances and reflects a forward-thinking approach to temporary housing solutions.
