BNA | Joost Glissenaar Architects

The Dutch Association of Architects moved from a formal and static Amsterdam canal house to a generic office floor with a panoramic view over the IJ-river. A removal which means also a transformation of the organization. From musty rooms to a transparent and open space. Less isles, more communication. A city made of transparent volumes. Within an anonymous office building a new identity for the Dutch Association of Architects is created. In the middle of a rectangular space a number of volumes are grouped in which the ‘closed’ program, like storages, meeting rooms, concentration work units and library are accommodated. The walls of these volumes are transparent or translucent and sometimes build up out of storey high bookcases. Bookcase becomes wall, wall becomes bookcase, bookcase becomes door. Due to the organization spaces are created for all separate departments of the BNA. Because all volumes are in the middle of the office floor the view across the IJ-river will be emphasized. There is made use out of 2 important materials, glass and glass green acryl plates. The choice for material and detailing are based on the specific demands of the program of each volume. Each program is connected to a specific transparency and detailing. The apparent careless organisation of the volumes presents unpredictable encounters between materials. Shiny materials are combined with matt materials, mirrors besides transparency.. Between the different departments informal meeting places are located, covered with a thin rubber coating likewise the rubber floor these solid pieces of furniture combine separation, bench, table and cupboard.The standard lowered ceiling is replaced by a durable and acoustic high quality expanded metal ceiling. The floor is covered with a rubber flooring. The new interior of the Dutch Association of Architects is colourless, the users and the visitors will appropriate the office with their clothing, books and accessories