Dutch firm Studio Modijefsky has successfully transformed the deteriorated large cinema, TheMovies, located in the heart of Dordrecht, into a vibrant and rejuvenated space known as De Witt. This newly revitalized establishment now functions as an all-day brasserie, complementing its existing three screens and offering a delightful fusion of culinary delights and visual entertainment. Moreover, De Witt’s strategic positioning opposite the Kunstkerk, a renowned platform for artistic development and innovation, contributes significantly to the establishment of a thriving cultural hub within the city.
The design concept employed by Studio Modijefsky skillfully incorporates the building’s rich historical background. Having previously served as a convent, school, and laboratory, the architects have seamlessly integrated these layers of history into a visually captivating and timeless aesthetic. The use of expressive shapes, warm colors, and carefully selected materials not only pays homage to the building’s past but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and heritage. This approach ensures that De Witt becomes deeply rooted in its community.
To further emphasize its connection to the city, De Witt’s aesthetic design adheres to the ‘Dordtse kleuren’, which is the official color palette inspired by Dordrecht’s historic architecture. By incorporating these colors, the establishment becomes a true reflection of the city’s identity and heritage.
The design elements inspired by the building’s previous functions are particularly noteworthy. The cloister, which represents the secluded walkways used by nuns for meditation, serves as an iconic motif. Additionally, the wimples, habits, and clothing worn by nuns are also incorporated into the design, paying homage to the building’s convent history. The presence of the school is felt through the use of tiled walls, windows that provide glimpses into classrooms, bulletin boards, and class benches. Furthermore, the laboratory aspect is cleverly represented through the inclusion of chemistry sets in the form of test tubes, holders, and protective glass screens. Lastly, the cinema aspect is celebrated through the incorporation of elements reminiscent of old-school glamour, such as curtains, luxurious drapery, and spotlights.
The Movies building in De Witt underwent a transformation by Studio Modijefsky, redirecting visitors through a new entrance designed by Lugten Malschaert Architects. The renovation involved breaking through the old facade to reveal existing windows and create new ones, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior through a glass front. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a ticket booth surrounded by light blue velvet curtains and a wall adorned with movie posters. Spotlights enhance the dramatic ambiance of the booth, signaling the start of a cinematic experience.
The ground floor saw a significant overhaul, with the former café and restaurant being replaced by a spacious brasserie. Walls and an elevator were removed to create a unified space with a central area, three smaller sections, and a bar, all interconnected to maximize natural light. The reorientation of the space towards the square outside creates a welcoming atmosphere that integrates the city surroundings. Visitors to the De Witt Brasserie are greeted by an open kitchen upon entering, featuring a long vermillion bench where they can observe the food preparation process. The design elements, such as tiles, windows, and custom lights, pay homage to the building’s history as a school and laboratory.
The custom lights in the brasserie incorporate bronze mirrors, lights, and glass panels reminiscent of protective screens used in experiments. Integrated lighting under the leather backrests of the bench complements the speckled tiles and glass paneling above, evoking the school’s heritage. Wooden hanging lights further illuminate the space, with their design inspired by laboratory test tubes. The furniture selection combines reclaimed vintage chairs with custom-made pieces, reflecting a blend of history and modernity.
The De Witt brasserie incorporates elevated sections to create a sense of varying heights within the space. One elevated corner offers a view through high windows, while the central area opposite the kitchen also stands out. Both elevated sections feature a warm-colored, chess-patterned stone floor adorned with Aigües tiles from Mallorca. The distinction between the two elevated parts is highlighted by an alternative floor pattern with squares instead of diagonals. Custom benches in a vermillion shade, matching the main brasserie, provide seating in the smaller areas, complete with leather backrests and seats. Wooden divisions reminiscent of school seating arrangements subtly guide guests on where to sit, although breaking the rules is not frowned upon. The rounded edge details of the seating where it meets the wall signify a departure from strict etiquette. Wimple frames around the windows, inspired by nuns’ head coverings, are made of thick dark linen in a warmer shade of grey.
Wimples also frame a series of ‘fake windows’ that mimic door openings in the brasserie, crafted from recycled canvas painted in ivory, off-white, and subtle powdery hues to create new artistic elements that play with light and shadow within the interior. Handcrafted alabaster lights positioned between these windows add a decorative touch to the entire De Witt interior.
The brasserie is complemented by a versatile event space, suitable for a variety of gatherings such as poetry readings and dance shows. Luxurious dark brown and taupe velvet curtains are draped elegantly, concealing an entrance to a fully equipped kitchen for catering purposes. The ambiance is enhanced by the warm glow of colored glass pendant lights and the sophisticated De Witt signature alabaster lights mounted on the walls. The window frames are intentionally darker to accentuate the charming view of the picturesque houses across the street. Studio Modijefsky aptly describes it as a harmonious blend of meticulously crafted areas that promise to host countless memorable evenings for the residents of Dordrecht.
In conclusion, Studio Modijefsky‘s transformation of TheMovies into De Witt Dordrecht has breathed new life into this once dilapidated cinema. By skillfully weaving together the building’s historical layers and incorporating the city’s official color palette, De Witt has become a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly combines flavors, visual entertainment, and a deep sense of heritage.