Sodafabriek

architecture

July 2015

Revitalisation of old gin & soda factory into a nautical centre to connect with the history of Schiedam.

Around two centuries ago Schiedam was a world wide producer of gin. This famous liqour was produced by many small factories, all situated in and around the city centre. Today most factories are gone, enlarging the importance to keep this once vivid history alive.

The Sodafabriek is a ruin of the rich past of Schiedam. Being part of the rich gin producing culture it now is one of the few buildings left that remind us of a once blackened gin producing city. After a short period of soda production the building was left unused. During this period the decay of building went fast. This results in a quite worse condition that now has to be resolved. Moreover, the west wall is leaning inwards due to wind pressure.

Schiedam is heavily connected with the Rotterdam harbour. Therefore a nautical theme was chosen for the revitalised building. A recreational harbour was created next to the building with a dedicated harbour office and sanitary functions. The restaurant on the ground and first floor contribute to the touristic function.

The rest of building is a collection of functions that are related to water. There is a nautical office, nautical training centre and sail maker.