Studioninedots transformed a warehouse building into their collective workspace in Amsterdam. They maintained the rawness of the building through the industrial design and focused on the openness of the space and the teamwork philosophy of the members.

-text by the architects

Since early 2022, Studioninedots were looking for a new location to replace their temporary workplace Creative Workspace 1-1-1 in Amsterdam North. At Karperweg in Amsterdam South, they found a warehouse building – anonymous and outdated, but with surprising, raw quality and at one of the city’s final fringes. Architects transformed the building and moved with eight other creative offices from our previous workplace into the new space.

Now, Karper K. is more than just their collective home base: they proudly present a place for unexpected and unpredictable combinations, a free space in the city that offers any maker a safe environment to evolve ideas.

Above all, they wanted to maintain the rawness of the original site, creating a sparking atmosphere that vitalizes the creativity inside. During the day, all various companies work side by side in the airy space on the east side of the building.

To maximize the existing collaborations and exchanges between the businesses, the workspace was designed to be transparent and consistent.

They named the hall along our workspaces Free Space: an expansive room that is completely open in form, function, and time of use. The space’s character enables it to spur a variety of cultural events and exhibitions, material tests, and night events.

Currently on display throughout the entire area is an interactive lighting installation, developed in collaboration with Synthetic State. On the street side lies the maker space, which through its high windows functions as Karper K.’s physical showcase.

To emphasize the unity of Karper K. and its users and create a space that permits continuous functional transition, the walls, cabinets, and even relics were finished in one uniform, soft grey color. A central element is the full-length cabinet at the workspace’s side, providing space for physical samples, models, and intimate meeting areas. Colorful furniture and seating elements reinforce the place’s identity. Through the shed roofs, the entire floor area is flooded with indirect natural light during the day. With PV panels on the roof, two air heat pump systems, and underfloor heating and cooling, the building is sustainably redeveloped.

Amsterdam is becoming increasingly scarce in safe places where ideas can unfold. Striving to form new communities with collective impact, with Karper K.  Studioninedots architects open a new place for exchange and experimentation to the city, which remains in constant flux.


Facts & Credits

Project title  Karper K.
Project type  Collective Workplace
Architects  Studioninedots
Location  Amsterdam, Netherlands
Area  985 m²
Year  2023
Photos  Sebastian van Damme

 


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