The former office building of the Social Services "De Zwarte Doos" is a household name in Groningen. The vacant office space has been transformed into a residential building, breathing new life into this place in the city. The building has 12 floors. Of the almost 300 apartments, 225 are intended for students.
The Black Box is a design by Van Linge & Kleinjan from 1976. The original characteristic facade elements of black gravel concrete have been retained and adapted in a number of places to create beautiful diagonal spaces in the new apartments. All frames and facade panels have been replaced with new champagne-coloured aluminium frames and aluminium piers that have been anodized in the colour AluGold01.
Great attention was paid to sustainability during the redevelopment. As much of the building as possible has been reused, it has also been made gas-free (heating is now provided by heat pumps) and is fully insulated.