Connecting people and fostering inclusive communities through architecture

Recently, a decision has been made to demolish the former Ministry of Social Affairs in The Hague, designed by architect Herman Herzberger. As early as 2016, we conducted research to explore the possibility of transforming the existing building. The conclusion was that it is feasible to create apartments while simultaneously establishing a passage between the surrounding neighborhoods and Laan van NOI station, thereby generating more public space. This approach allows us to preserve heritage while significantly reducing material waste.

An idea of what a ministry could look like

The former Ministry of Social Affairs in The Hague, is in a crucial location due to its proximity to the train station of Den Haag Laan van NOI. Designed in the 1980’s by architect Herman Hertzberger, the massive concrete building was recently repurposed to host housing and commercial activities. The Ministry of Social Affairs is not an actual ministry but rather an idea of what a ministry could look like to promote social interaction and a sense of community. Hertzberger aimed to connect people and foster inclusive communities through architecture. The building features flexible spaces and an open structure to ensure everyone feels welcome. Hertzberger believed that architecture could contribute to connecting people and empowering communities.

New identity without compromising historical value

FABRICations developed a project to revitalize the building and adapt it to the new use by giving it new identity without compromising its historical value. Strategically, critical demolitions and additions were used to transform the building into a catalyst for public life and commercial activity in order to maximize the investments and introduce outer spaces and vegetation. The final outcome is a 3D village where apartments have outdoor space and vegetation to provide natural climate control, water retention and sound insulation. The new façade provides a new identity for the building and efficient insulation, while historical characteristics are preserved inside. The traditional high rise typology is broken into a fragmented and dynamic entity where the building cascades towards the inner courtyards and the public life.