Huis aan de Haven by Powerhouse Company

Situated on the southern edge of Leeuwarden, Huis aan de Haven emerges as a striking landmark in the newly developed Middelsee district. Designed by Powerhouse Company for MWPO and constructed by Reitsma Bouw, the project occupies a prime position surrounded by water and greenery, offering residents a contemporary yet authentic northern Dutch living experience. With its modern appearance and strategic location, the building serves as a gateway to the district, reinforcing the maritime identity of the region while establishing itself as a point of orientation within the urban landscape.

Contemporary Dockside Interpretation

Huis aan de Haven draws inspiration from the traditional dockside buildings that have historically defined northern Dutch port cities, yet it is reinterpreted for the 21st century. Its architectural language combines robust brick volumes with refined materials such as powder-coated steel and anodized aluminum, achieving a balance between durability and elegance. The façades feature generous window openings, deep reveals, and rhythmic proportions, producing a distinctive yet cohesive expression that resonates with the maritime context while projecting a contemporary sensibility. By embracing both tradition and modernity, the building situates itself as both a continuation of regional heritage and a forward-looking urban marker.

Residential Program and Interior-Exterior Connection

Comprising 90 residences, Huis aan de Haven offers a diversity of living typologies, including city apartments, duplex houses with workspaces, and penthouses with expansive rooftop gardens. The project emphasizes connectivity between interior and exterior spaces, fostering a strong sense of community while ensuring private retreat areas for residents. Folding glass doors, particularly on the penthouses, allow the terraces to seamlessly extend the interiors, creating a fluid relationship with the water and landscaped surroundings.

The development integrates shared outdoor spaces thoughtfully, enhancing social interaction among residents. A central courtyard atop the parking garage provides a tranquil oasis within the dense urban fabric, while the ground-floor apartments feature the traditional Frisian ‘overtuin’ – a front garden located across the street from each home. This unique typology not only offers private outdoor space but also strengthens the connection between the building and its surrounding streetscape. The shared courtyard and individual terraces together create multiple layers of engagement, from intimate family moments to broader communal interactions.

Landscape and Environmental Integration

Designed in collaboration with LAP Landscape & Urban Design, the landscaping strategy reinforces the relationship between the building, water, and city. Outdoor spaces are organized to flow naturally from interior functions, supporting both everyday use and moments of leisure. Green terraces and rooftop gardens crown the penthouses in a stepped formation, providing panoramic views of the water, urban surroundings, and the inner courtyard. These design interventions ensure that nature is a continuous presence, visually and experientially, throughout the residential complex.

Materiality and Urban Identity

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in articulating the building’s maritime character. Brick conveys robustness and regional continuity, while steel and aluminum add refinement and modernity. This combination reflects the duality of the district’s identity—anchored in history yet evolving toward a contemporary urban future. The rhythmic façade articulation, along with carefully considered detailing, casts dynamic shadows across the surfaces, adding depth and vibrancy to the streetscape. In this way, Huis aan de Haven contributes to the visual identity of Middelsee, positioning itself as a memorable urban marker at the entrance to the new district.

Social Engagement and Quality of Life

Beyond its architectural and landscape qualities, Huis aan de Haven prioritizes resident well-being and social life. Communal areas, terraces, and gardens are designed to encourage interaction, whether for informal meetings, shared meals, or recreational activities. At the same time, private outdoor spaces, particularly the penthouse terraces and ‘overtuinen,’ offer moments of retreat and individual enjoyment. By addressing both communal and private needs, the building fosters a holistic residential experience that enhances quality of life while promoting a sense of belonging within the district.

Conclusion

Huis aan de Haven exemplifies Powerhouse Company’s commitment to thoughtful urban design and contextual architecture. By blending historical references with contemporary materials, articulating interior-exterior relationships, and prioritizing both social and private outdoor spaces, the development establishes a new standard for residential living in Middelsee. It is a landmark that connects the water, greenery, and urban fabric, providing residents with a modern, elegant, and contextually grounded living environment while enhancing the district’s identity and sense of place.

Photography: Sebastian van Damme