The construction of the Zwaluw Park housing development in Arnhem-Noord has begun with a festive launch on June 26th on site. The development is situated between Zwaluwstraat and Thomas à Kempislaan. Mecanoo’s design consists of two residential buildings: one building with 36 single-family homes and one building with 68 apartments, each around a spacious child-friendly garden. The homes vary in format and size, making them suitable for a broad clientele. Zwaluw Park will be completed at the end of 2011.
The design was greatly influenced by the sloping surroundings and by the nearby Klarendal Park. Because the blocks are slightly elevated, they appear as though they are floating. The facade is made up largely of glass and wood, imbuing the houses with a modern, light and transparent appearance. The horizontal lines of the balconies are occasionally interrupted by glass boxes like musical notes along the facade. The common garden around the block is planted to appear as "untouched" nature. Low maintenance grasses and flowers and native tree occupy the landscape. Paths have been omitted, allowing children to play and stroll without a care. Cars remain out of sight and parked in an underground garage.

programme: 2 residential blocks with 36 single-family houses and 68 apartments, public space design, 1st prize in design competition
Design: 2006-2009
Realisation: 2010-2011
Client: Proper-Stok Groep B.V., Rotterdam
Structural engineer, building physics consultant, fire safety and MEP: ABT bv, Velp
Acoustics consultant: BBN consultants, Houten
Infrastructure Advisor: Mourik, Groot Ammers
Contractor: Reinbouw B.V., Dieren