Small living in a big house

Daenenstraat, Antwerp

In the centre of Antwerp stands the dilapidated corner building once inhabited by Centrum Algemeen Welzijnswerk ('Centre for social work', CAW). Given the astronomical costs of a full renovation, social housing corporation De Ideale Woning plans to create a residential building containing five new studios instead. Once completed, the CAW will rent out the studios to former homeless people. Radar architecten has been appointed for this assignment. Construction is due to start in the summer of 2020.

This large residential building will house five connected split-level units, constructed around a communal stairwell. There will be room for bicycle parking next to the entrance on the street level, as well as semi-underground storage space for all residents. The five interconnected studios will be constructed on three floors. On the fourth floor, a communal area and roof terrace will be created for all residents to enjoy.