Peña Architecture is the studio behind 'Casa K,' a renovation project of a former Museum in Rotterdam. The finished product is a luxurious apartment complex, featuring three separate residences that share an entryway and elevator.
The architects focused on creating a modern aesthetic without comprising the historical elements of the building (which is also protected by the city's preservation stipulations). The focal point of the complex is a walnut cube surrounded by open glass that functions as a staircase leading from the ground to top floor.
The innovative walnut staircase structure is contrasted with steel railings, aluminum kitchen appliances and darker, wooden bookshelves. The bare white walls offer a clean and simplistic touch and allow the art on the walls to become a central focus.
Luxurious Modernized Museum Complexes
Casa K is a Former Rotterdam Museum Turned Apartment Complex
Trend Themes
1. Modernizing Museum Buildings - Renovating historical museum complexes into modern and luxurious multi-use buildings, like Casa K in Rotterdam.
2. Preserving Historical Elements - Maintaining historical preservation regulations while creating contemporary buildings, like the walnut cube staircase featured in Casa K.
3. Focusing on Design Aesthetics - Creating a cohesive and modern aesthetic in historical buildings while highlighting the existing artwork, like the white walls in Casa K.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate - Opportunities for real estate developers to renovate historical buildings into multi-use luxury complexes, like Casa K.
2. Architecture - Designing modern buildings while preserving historical elements and complying with preservation regulations, like Peña Architecture.
3. Interior Design - Creating sleek and cohesive interior designs that blend modern and historic elements, like the walnut cube staircase and white walls in Casa K.