HYDE PARK HOOFDDORP

Hyde Park in Hoofddorp is a new residential district in the Randstad, developed on the site of a former office park. Part of an ambitious urban transformation, the area is being restructured to support a dense mix of housing, amenities, and public space. Kensington, designed by Barcode Architects, is one of the first residential blocks to be realised and sets the tone for the larger development.

The building consists of seven distinct volumes, each varying in height, massing, and roof form. Together, they define a block with a stepped silhouette and a broad mix of housing types, including lofts along the water, maisonettes, rooftop apartments, and compact studios. These variations respond to different living needs while shaping an ensemble that breaks from the typical repetitive block structure.

Each volume is articulated as a separate ‘house’ with its own material palette and façade rhythm. The buildings are arranged in a gradual progression of heights, creating a varied roofline and a clear sense of scale within the larger block. Differences in material and light conditions help to define the identity of each part while maintaining a cohesive whole. The Pixelhouse extends vertically from the adjacent park, the Waterhouse aligns with the water's edge, and the Mountain marks the main corner of the development with a bold, stepped form.

At street level, the block is activated by a mix of entrances, small commercial units, and cafés. These are positioned along the perimeter to create a varied frontage and support interaction with the public realm. On the first floor, a large shared courtyard spans the centre of the block, providing residents with a semi-private outdoor space. Generous openings in the façades connect this inner courtyard to the surrounding streets, offering multiple routes through the block and a network of visual connections between the public and private domains.

The development incorporates several sustainable strategies. An integrated ATES system provides heating and cooling throughout the year, while the courtyard garden doubles as a water buffer during heavy rainfall. Planted roof terraces help manage rainwater runoff and contribute to local biodiversity. Facilities for electric vehicle charging and ample bicycle storage are included on site, encouraging the use of sustainable transport. The project is also well connected to public transit, supporting a low-car lifestyle.