The Raaks area is a multifaceted inner city area in Haarlem. This highly diverse project is carefully integrating the area into the existing urban fabric by organising the plan around a series of open courtyards and parks that match both the historic city centre and the architecture of the houses.

The striking Lantaarn corner building coupled with Peter Wilson's remarkable new cinema will make for an imposing new gateway to this part of Haarlem. An entirely new street profile and a double row of trees will give Raaks a stately image while the functions will cover both the ground floor and first floor façades. Many characteristics typical of Haarlem are included: Two almshouse courts will be located around the school, and the street profile for the new interior walkway corresponds with the model of the Haarlem shopping street.

Also included in the plan are such vital elements as pedestrian zones, bicycle shelters, loading zones and green areas – even the materials for the paved streets have been carefully chosen and documented. All the architects have devised attractive and sometimes ingenious solutions for their areas.