Introduction
Founded by Xander Vermeulen Windsant in 2010, XVW Architectuur is an Amsterdam based studio focussed on the public purpose of architecture. After winning the Mies van der Rohe Prize in 2017, XVW has become recognised for a “bottom up” approach to design that engages with the public revealing and nurturing the identity of a place rather than imposing a new one.
The practice’s portfolio includes projects ranging from innovative approaches to housing to large scale masterplanning and transportation projects. The architects are interested in implementing investigative research as part of the design process but are also very hands-on focussing on how technical solutions are part of a wider social response that give shape to XVW’s architecture.
As Xander Vermeulen Windsant says: “I do not know better than being an architect. And for me the design is only ‘finished’ when the project has been built: then the building has become an architecture.”
Approach
The studio’s approach embraces fresh thinking with the knowledge that architecture is of lasting value. XVW celebrate this notion of permanence and continuity particularly at a time of intense change.
This vision is coupled with a keen interest in the craft of building, new building typologies and innovative methods of procurement that serve the evolving needs of society today. In this way, XVW want to fully embrace architecture’s capacity to renew its environment in collaborative ways of working. From it, a meaningful and appropriate architecture is developed for each project, fitting the need of clients, the occupants of their buildings and the context of the projects.
Sketches and maquettes are an important part of the early design process in ascertaining the essence of a project. These are explored together with the clients to best gauge the overall potential of each building.
The design approach is thus conversational and places a great value on mutual understanding and the trust that evolves from this. Projects do not start from a dogmatic formal starting point but are developed towards a clear and coherent form. They are driven by XVW’s principles and underpinned by a rigour in how projects are organised as well as a strong ethical position with respect to architecture’s enduring contribution to society.
Team
Xander Vermeulen Windsant
Xander is principal architect and founder of XVW architectuur. He studied at Delft University of Technology graduating with Honours.
After working with one of the leading architecture offices in Amsterdam, he established XVW architectuur in 2010 in order to independently address a new agenda for architecture as a resilient response to a rapidly changing world. In 2017, this approach won XVW the Mies van der Rohe Award’s EU Prize for Contemporary Architecture.
He has been a visiting lecturer at a number of institutions including the Delft University of Technology, Aarhus School of Architecture, Mendrisio and the Politcehnico Milano. He is a contributor and board member to the Dutch Online Architecture platform Archined.nl. and an international juror.
The team further consists of young architects and students doing internships.