routing: existing and proposedmasterplan

cross section

elevations

Presikhaaf, a large residential neighbourhood in the southeast of Arnhem municipality, is a prime example of Dutch 60s CIAM-architecture. The thoughts on rationalization, standardization, the neighbourhood unit and living quality were executed on urban scale. The redesign of station Presikhaaf, originally built in 1969, proposes to interpret the CIAM ideal of standardized building production and assembly and translate the use of pre-fab elements to a configuration that is easy to implement and construct. The proposed design uses existing pre-fab NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) building parts to extend the existing station structure. The proposal thus preserves a unique architecture and planning discourse, while linking it to modern needs through minimal intervention. However, to obtain a light-wait and comfortable atmosphere for travellers, this project explores the combination of heavy pre-fab concrete elements with more natural elements. Inspiration is derived from both CIAM heritage and its local embeddedness in Presikhaaf and Japanese culture and building construction. In Japanese tradition, there is a strong linkage between in- and outdoor area’s, known as ‘enagawa’; the gradual transition from nature to the interior. Therefore, in addition to the concrete elements, wood has been used as main cladding.

The ramp follows the curve of the existing grass hill, consistently looking out over the park, which mentally introduces the greenery of Presikhaaf to a larger public. The aim is to provide a better connection (not only in mobility) between daily travellers, mostly from HAN, and their destination area. NS pre-fab trestles are placed in the hill to support the path. Due to the new routing and its passageway through the meadow, the old oak tree has been given more attention; it is now ‘embraced’ by an efficient path and more leisurely path, thus experienced more closely. Almost all trees surrounding Arnhem Presikhaaf station are oak trees, some with protected status. The surrounding inspired the use of oak tree for the board walk and the extension of the station.