Neighbourhood residents and heritage organisations in Scheveningen have organised a protest against Belle Court, a proposed apartment complex on Badhuisweg.
Organisers Erik Sanders, Paul Crefcoeur, and Marlies Woudstra set up a banner beside the building site featuring an image of the planned structure crossed out, alongside a QR code linking to a petition that has gathered thousands of signatures.
The petition was launched by Platformgroep Badhuisweg alongside local neighbourhood groups, Vrienden van Den Haag, and Stichting SOS Den Haag.
Concerns over size and style
Opponents argue the project is far too massive and tall, warning that it will overshadow nearby homes and break the surrounding skyline by rising higher than neighbouring buildings and the local cinema.
Architect Peter Drijver of SOS Den Haag argues that new developments along the coast frequently fail to build upon the historic seaside character of Scheveningen.
Scheveningen-based architect Eric Vredenburgh also notes that while a seaside district does not need a single uniform style, massive blocks with uniform flat facades disrupt the visual balance of the resort.
Developers defend the design
Developers MYB and Ten Brinke reject claims that the design clashes with the local setting.
Project architect Mark Siebers explained by email that the design took cues from larger existing structures along Badhuisweg rather than the houses on Harstenhoekweg.
Siebers noted the complex will feature a cream-coloured brick facade meant to harmonize with local red and white tones as well as natural coastal colours, giving the building a calm appearance despite its size.
Local residents, however, maintain that developers could instead build multiple smaller structures on the site, which once held three villas, rather than attempting to fit as many units as possible into a single block.
