Borneohof

On three sides, the new building follows the building line of the old buildings. The richly decorated facades are inspired by the original architecture of architect A.W. Weissman and fit in with the existing buildings. The fourth facade section, the square building with arcade and tower, is detached from the street pattern and dominates the square by its monumentality and height. Where the original Borneo block entered the square with a sharp point, the Borneohof has returned this point to the public space and the building forms a beautiful capstone on the square. The tower engages in a dialogue with another tower on the square, that of the nearby former bathhouse.

Four large gates provide access via a generous staircase to the elevated interior courtyards where the 67 dwellings are grouped. Because of the high entrances, the courtyards are visible from the street and, conversely, the lively square is visible from the courtyard gardens. In two entrance gates Piet Hein Eek realized a work of art with a collection of old doors that remained after demolition of the Borneo block. In their new function, the old doors contribute to the coziness of the Borneohof. The communal garden forms a link between the apartments and acts as a central meeting place.

There is a two-story, underground parking garage with three inconspicuous entrances on Madura Street. The adjacent part of Borneostraat and the square could thus be freed from parking spaces and are thus car-free. The socio-cultural facilities (including library and café) in the plinth reinforce the center function.