Location: Zwolle, Netherlands.

Architect: BK. Architecten.

The Waanders in de Broeren project involved adding 700 square meters of shopping space to a 15th-century church in Zwolle, while maintaining the historical value of the building. The three added floors were placed in the side wing of the church, outside the central ship, and were constructed without being connected to the church, so they could be removed in the future without demolishing the building. The central axis was kept free to maintain the size of the church, with eye-catchers on both sides to stimulate customers to overlook the entire length of the Broerenkerk. The materials used for the additions were pure and sober, with wood in three colors and white painted plastering work. The main goal of the shop was to sell products, so the main designing goal was to create an optimal store concept with logical routings and attractive product presentation. An attractive central staircase was created to get customers to the top floor, with bookcases as part of the main construction. The furniture was inspired by the work of Dutch architect Dom Hans van der Laan, who designed furniture for monasteries that was made of wood and always very sober and well detailed. The designs were well fitted for retail objectives.

Photo credit: Joop_van_Putten.