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a new standard for urban living in rotterdam
Barcode Architects celebrates the completion of its CasaNova tower, designed as a new paradigm of high-rise living in Rotterdam. With an emphasis on fostering interactions among its residents, the residential complex sets a new standard for urban living and rises against the backdrop of its sister tower, The Muse.
The tower is recognized at once by its triangular design, visible from all angles, which breathes fresh life into the Wijnhaven district. CasaNova strategically activates the corner of Wijnhaven, creating a connection between the Oude Haven and the Markthal, and linking the Leuvehaven and the Witte de Withstraat to Museumpark. An extended entrance lobby spanning from Wijnhaven to Wijnstraat creates a gateway that welcomes residents from both sides of the city.
images © Studio Hans Wilschut | @hanswilschut
casanova links to its neighboring tower, the muse
CasaNova’s distinctive architectural silhouette is a creative response by Barcode Architects to KCAP‘s urban plan for Rotterdam, which mandates a specific volume-to-ground ratio. To meet this requirement, the architects made a bold decision: subtract volume at the base while adding it to the top, resulting in a tower that seems to perch upon a pedestal like a sculpture. This slender structure optimizes sight lines and natural light for neighboring buildings while offering residents a sprawling 1,600 square-meter rooftop garden which CasaNova and The Muse residents can both enjoy. Placing the garden on level five, rather than the roof, connects it seamlessly to ground-level amenities.
The unique triangular shape of CasaNova offers its inhabitants 300-degree panoramic views of the city, creating an elevated living experience. Generous fifteen square-meter balconies at the triangle’s corners function as outdoor extensions of the living spaces, basking in the morning and evening sun. With its tip facing south, the triangular shape maximizes exposure to natural sunlight, promoting a sense of well-being.
the project is situated in Rotterdam’s rapidly developing Maritiem District
barcode architects’ handcrafted facade
The team at Barcode Architects wraps its CasaNova tower in a facade of hand-cut panels of rusticated reddish-brown stone. The stone’s strong texture continually transforms the facade’s appearance as the light changes throughout the day. As one’s gaze ascends the tower, the panels gradually widen and transition to smoothly polished surfaces. The panels evolve gracefully toward the pinnacle of the structure, adding a dynamic visual dimension to the tower.
Addressing concerns about isolation and loneliness often associated with skyscrapers, Barcode Architects placed a strong emphasis on communal spaces and meeting areas beyond the typical atrium or elevator lobby. CasaNova and The Muse share a common plinth that offers residents the comfort of city living. Within this shared space, the two towers unite two hundred residents with a rooftop terrace, a community garden, kitchen, guest rooms, co-working spaces, meeting rooms, fitness facilities, and a parcel service room.
To promote casual encounters and informal conversations — a cornerstone of community, safety, and social cohesion — a significant design intervention separated the car park from the residences. For many residents, the car park serves as their daily entrance. From this vantage point, they step into CasaNova through an inviting atrium that offers a glimpse of the rooftop terrace, where neighbors can meet before ascending in the elevator. This thoughtful design element fosters a strong sense of community among residents.
panels of rusticated stone were hand-cut to bring a natural texture at street level 
15 square-meter balconies at the triangle’s corners function as outdoor extensions of the living spaces
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