Elegant Cathedral-Like Wood Columns Support A Canopy Over This New Supermarket

Design firm De Zwarte Hond has completed SuperHub, a grocery store and cafe in Groningen, The Netherlands.

The eye-catching design of the building is expansive and transparent, with a supporting structure made entirely of cross-shaped laminated wood columns and beams, providing the building with a cathedral-like appearance.

The large span and nine-meter ceiling height create an exceptionally luminous space and offer the opportunity for a flexible layout and usage adaptations in the future. The building could, for example, accommodate a community center, a museum, or even homes in 20 years’ time.

The large canopy, which extends out more than five meters, provides sun protection and draws the structure into its green surroundings with the use of columns and net-like wooden trusses.

Additionally, the cross forms provide the building with stability, ensuring that no additional wind-bracing infrastructure is required.

Inside, the structure of the building is clearly visible, while the large windows provide an abundance of natural light throughout the marketplace.