Sanders Mello Building by Buro/S Architects: A Masterpiece of Historic Building Renovation

Preserving Heritage Through Thoughtful Design

Buro/S Architects have brilliantly transformed the Sanders Mello Building in Wassenaar, The Netherlands, into a modern orthodontic clinic, demonstrating the power of historic building renovation. Originally constructed in the early 17th century, this national monument once served as a farmhouse and later a shop. The architects approached the project with deep respect for its historic value, carefully preserving its distinctive gabled roof and narrow front façade while introducing contemporary architectural elements that meet today’s healthcare needs.

Blending History with Contemporary Architecture

The Sanders Mello Building’s renovation balances preservation and innovation. The existing structure, characterized as a “deep house” with a floor plan stretching deep into the plot, was restored both internally and externally. Buro/S Architects added a new extension to the right and rear, designed for a possible future vertical addition, making the building adaptable for coming decades.

At the front, the architects introduced a striking new façade composed of two dark brown brick piers flanking a glass wall that reveals the silhouette of the historic structure. The main entrance, crafted from a glazed steel frame in a sophisticated earth green, and a polished dark green concrete lintel above, seamlessly link the old and new elements.

Designing for Functionality and Patient Comfort

Inside, the clinic offers eight treatment rooms and essential supporting facilities. The interior was carefully reimagined to preserve original details like exposed brick walls and historic ceiling colors while improving functionality for a modern orthodontic practice. Patients enter through the new entrance, greeted by a polished concrete reception desk and a waiting area within the monument’s original section.

A skylight positioned along the axis of the main entrance floods the corridor with daylight, guiding visitors through the space and enhancing orientation. The separation of patient and staff circulation routes creates a serene and hygienic environment, ensuring smooth clinic operations.

Sustainable Innovation in Historic Building Renovation

Sustainability was a guiding principle in this renovation. The new extension incorporates sustainable materials and energy-efficient mechanical systems, integrated thoughtfully to preserve the monument’s historic value. Buro/S Architects’ sensitive approach illustrates how historic building renovation can simultaneously protect architectural heritage and meet contemporary standards for energy performance and environmental responsibility.

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

The transformation of the Sanders Mello Building shows that honoring the past does not mean freezing it in time. By blending authentic materials, historic craftsmanship, and cutting-edge architectural design, Buro/S Architects have created a sustainable, functional, and visually stunning space. The Sanders Mello Building now stands as an inspiring example of how thoughtful renovation can breathe new life into historic architecture while safeguarding its legacy for future generations.

All the photographs are works of Aiste Rakauskaite