Long may we live!
Sint Jacob conversion (2006) De Architecten Cie. / Pi de Bruijn
Housing for the elderly as lifestyle
The Sint Jacob psychiatric hospital on the Plantage Middenlaan in Amsterdam was founded in 1870. Following several renovations, in 2006 De Architecten Cie. presented a plan for its conversion into housing for the elderly. The design takes account of future developments in the neighbourhood. It is part of a cultural route that includes the Royal Tropical Institute and Artis zoo. The luxury complex is aimed at wealthy and active pensioners who lead rich social lives. The range of housing is designed for a variety of lifestyles and includes large, independent apartments and sheltered housing for vulnerable pensioners. The sheltered housing is based on a familiar model: the residents have their own bedrooms but share a communal living room and kitchen.