MICROLAB
The current west-wing of the Microlab will be redeveloped into a multifunctional, social building. With retail, bars, restaurant, offices, social dwellings, and a large atrium, the Mircolab has to offer something to all its users and inhabitants of the neighbourhood.
PASSAGE, ROOF & ATRIUM
PASSAGE
Through Microlab a passage will be realized. This passage will improve the connection between Strijp-S and the surrounding neighbourhoods. A clear entrance is given to the passage as visible on the elevation. The passage gives also access to the atrium and to multiple commercial functions at the ground floor of Microlab. The passage can be used as a space to meet, but also as a way for transportation.
ROOF
The roof of the Microlab will be transformed into a publicly accessible roof with space for allotment gardens. Two shallow staircases on the sides of the building give people to opportunity to access the roof from either the ground or from the Microlab. A small addition will be placed on the roof to house a small cafe where people can enjoy the roof and views of the surroundings.
ATRIUM
The section shows clearly how the atrium forms a large open space in Microlab. With full building height, the atrium is visible from all the floor. Employees from the offices, residents, and others can use the atrium as a place to relax and meet each other. It forms a pleasant environment to work and stay in.
RESIDENTIALÂ UNITS
STUDIO APARTMENT
In the upper floor of Microlab, social studio apartments will be realized. With a floorspace of 57 m2 and an affordable rental price, the studios are perfect for young starters. Besides the studio apartments, two communal spaces will be realized at the same floor. This can be used by the residents together to improve social cohesion, but can also be used by a residents when receiving guests.
INSIDE CLIMATE
In the Microlab, the atrium creates a stack effect which is increased by the solar gains due to the glazed roof. However, since these passive ventilation systems are not enough for the apartments, a balanced ventilation system is added inside Microlab, to ensure that the apartments are comfortable to live in. In addition, in order to ensure that no cold bridges occur in the existing Microlab, the façade is put in front of the columns so that the structure stays inside.
