Architect：Mulderblauw architecten

Location：Hoofddorp, Netherlands; | ;

Project Year：2015

Category：Bars;Hotels;Restaurants

Stories By：Mulderblauw architecten;Mosa

This Novotel lies within walking distance of the railway station in Hoofddorp. The main entrance to the hotel is located on the station side, while the south side features a continuous front that frames the bar and restaurant, serving both hotel guests and passing pedestrians. In the low building volume we designed a large atrium with a glazed roof that allows the infiltration of daylight. The building boasts very high energy-performance levels due to the relatively narrow vertical windows, deep nudes, direct ventilation, connection to a geothermal heat pump, and high insulation value. For the construction we used materials that are easy to separate and reuse.

Notable materials include the glossy printed ceramic Cradle-to-Cradle tiles with which the building is cladded. We developed these tiles in collaboration with a graphic designer and tile manufacturer according to a new manufacturing procedure. The print, which is an abstract representation of reed, interprets the surroundings of the Haarlemmermeerpolder in a contemporary manner. The intensity of the printed pattern decreases along the façade like the image of a fringe of reeds. Instead of using pigments, we glazed the tiles with a matt-stone coat and pressed them with high-gloss ink. The appearance of the print alters as the observer moves and daylight conditions change.

Interior For the new Novotel Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Mulderblauw architects was responsible for the exterior as well as the interior of the building. Important for the new concept of the public area is a rather informal setting combined with nature as a theme.

The entrance is characterised by an impressive wooden canopy of which the ledges continue on inside. The continuous canopy in combination with the storey-high windows that have been applied all around the public area, are essential for a welcoming gesture towards the guests.

The various functions on the ground floor have been merged into one dynamic multifunctional area. The individual reception desks, the food bar, the play area and the gourmet restaurant overlap, which creates constant interaction between these areas. The heart of this continuous space is the atrium with the “tree of life”, an eye catcher and important element in the new generation of Novotel hotels. The gourmet restaurant, which offers a range of local dishes, is located in the same area. The show kitchen, which shows the chefs at work, creates a warm and transparent vibe. 0cated against the kitchen wall is an impressing wall unit, stocked with familiar Dutch products. This central space is enriched by the skylights and is positioned in such a way that the other public functions are grouped around it. The theme, nature, is reflected in the use of honest materials such as blue steel, wood and exposed concrete. From the atrium into the terrace the space becomes more intimate. This is where the play area is located: an interactive space with a football table, a game computer and playful furniture to entertain kids big and small.

The meeting and conference spaces are on the first floor. Despite the high percentage of businesspeople, the meeting facilities have also been given a more casual setting by using homely elements like a pantry, kitchen tables, comfortable armchairs and floor lamps.

The public spaces have additionally been given a Dutch touch in the form of artwork. In collaboration with a graphic designer we used images from the Rijksmuseum and gave them a modern feel. By enlarging, cropping or distorting images and projecting these on walls and carpets, we’ve created surprising design elements.

‘The implementation of sustainable solutions in the hotel industry can extend beyond simply washing towels less frequently or encouraging guests to take shorter showers. It might even reach so far that the positive results produced by the implementation of sustainable measures can give that little extra bit of luxury back to the guests. As an architect you really have to think about things like that.’ This is the opinion of Robert Mulder of the architecture firm Mulderblauw architects, that designed the exterior and the interior of the new Novotel hotel in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands.

Mulder explains, ‘An overnight stay at a hotel needs to be an experience for the guests. This is why our designs emphasize the human and social aspects. Sustainability flows forth from this commitment and pertains to the future. At Novotel Hoofddorp we wanted to design a building that could be transformed into office spaces or permanent homes in the future with minimal modifications. This type of flexibility, in addition to energy reduction and the smart use of materials, determines its sustainability. This means that you need to be open to other perspectives and we found this openness at Mosa. They distinguish themselves through their production of Cradle to Cradle tiles in the Netherlands and create a space for dialogue. Mosa designers work together with us every time to create something unique. This collaboration is important, as it makes the final design even better.’

‘At Novotel Hoofddorp we wanted to create a light facade that reflected the concept of the reed beds that line the canals of the surrounding Haarlemmermeer. Ceramics are very suitable for this, as you can decide on the colours and feel of the surface and shape the desired look of the whole. Together with Mosa we looked for a way of extending the reed-design all the way to the top of the building using tiles. As we explored the possibilities together the design became increasingly abstract and now the facade creates a bold interplay between light and shadow through the alternation of matte and gloss surfaces. These tiles not only showcase their own print but also reflect the actual landscape and Dutch skies above in a highly unique way.'

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