Positive Space Transforming ideas into spatial identity.

OVERVIEW

We create thoughtful and human-centered architecture that enriches personal experiences, positively influences behavior, and makes sustainability a given. By designing from a human perspective, with attention to space and surroundings, we bring places to life where identity can flourish and inspiration is innate. We accomplish this by designing all Positive Space. In architecture, these are the physical elements that define space, such as walls, floors, columns, stairs, and furniture. They give shape and function to the design.

This simultaneously gives form to Negative Space. This is the empty space between and around the elements; it is not merely a background, but the defined free, livable space itself.

Designing is not only about filling space but also about shaping it. Positive Space forms the foundation for a defined Negative Space, which is why the architecture firm is named after what we do and consider most important: shaping space through Positive Space®.

OUR METHOD

Positive Space begins every design

Positive Space begins every design

Positive Space begins every design

to create spaces

to create spaces

to create spaces

those habits, experiences, and identity

those habits, experiences, and identity

those habits, experiences, and identity

crafting with a positive architectural vision

crafting with a positive architectural vision

crafting with a positive architectural vision

OUR METHODS

OUR VISION

Positive Space® believes that architecture is more than just form and function: it defines emotions, influences behavior, shapes experiences, and forms identity. We see it as both our responsibility and privilege to design spaces where people and their environments naturally enhance each other. In this way, we create architecture that contributes to a positive living environment and to who you are.
Positive Space believes that architecture is more than just form and function: it influences behavior, shapes experiences, and thus forms identity. We see it as both our responsibility and privilege to design spaces where people and the environment naturally enhance each other. In this way, we create architecture that contributes to a positive living world and to who you are.
Positive Space believes that architecture is more than just form and function: it influences behavior, shapes experiences, and thus forms identity. We see it as both our responsibility and privilege to design spaces where people and the environment naturally enhance each other. In this way, we create architecture that contributes to a positive living world and to who you are.

APPROACH

We start the analysis by understanding who you are and what matters to you. From this foundation, we create a design that visibly translates your story and values, with an intelligent layout, pleasant spaces, and sustainable choices.
We start the analysis by understanding who you are and what matters to you. From this foundation, we create a design that visibly translates your story and values, with an intelligent layout, pleasant spaces, and sustainable choices.

THE RESULT

From concept to reality: we transform this vision into a clear spatial layout with smart organization and the right materials. This creates a design that not only looks beautiful but also feels welcoming and familiar, encouraging positive behavior.
From concept to reality: we transform this vision into a clear spatial layout with smart organization and the right materials. This creates a design that not only looks beautiful but also feels welcoming and familiar, encouraging positive behavior.

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like.
Design is how it works.”
Steve Jobs



SERVICES

Each project receives a unique design based on the analysis of its identity. To achieve this, we go through six defined design phases, from the grandest scale to the finest details. This ensures a structured approach where the appropriate design challenges are addressed in each phase. Positive Space is a full-service design agency that assists from conception to completion.

1

Sketch Design

In the initial phase, the sketch design, we explore your desires and what is feasible. This may be within an existing building, within the zoning plan, or the context of the surroundings. We start with a thorough analysis of who you are, your desires, and the given location. Based on this information, we create a compelling concept. This then translates into an initial design that makes the concept tangible: how it integrates with the existing surroundings and creates space for new possibilities. This is presented in various possible scenarios.

The structure and layout of the building form the foundation for a spatial idea that inspires.

Exploration Design Brief

Analyze location

Analyze identity

Spatial Research

Spatial design

Layout studies

1

Sketch Design

In the initial phase, the sketch design, we explore your desires and what is feasible. This may be within an existing building, within the zoning plan, or the context of the surroundings. We start with a thorough analysis of who you are, your desires, and the given location. Based on this information, we create a compelling concept. This then translates into an initial design that makes the concept tangible: how it integrates with the existing surroundings and creates space for new possibilities. This is presented in various possible scenarios.

The structure and layout of the building form the foundation for a spatial idea that inspires.

Exploration Design Brief

Analyze location

Analyze identity

Spatial Research

Spatial design

Layout studies

1

Sketch Design

In the initial phase, the sketch design, we explore your desires and what is feasible. This may be within an existing building, within the zoning plan, or the context of the surroundings. We start with a thorough analysis of who you are, your desires, and the given location. Based on this information, we create a compelling concept. This then translates into an initial design that makes the concept tangible: how it integrates with the existing surroundings and creates space for new possibilities. This is presented in various possible scenarios.

The structure and layout of the building form the foundation for a spatial idea that inspires.

Exploration Design Brief

Analyze location

Analyze identity

Spatial Research

Spatial design

Layout studies

2

Preliminary Design

The initial sketches take shape in a clear layout and digital 3D models. This way, it becomes visible how exterior, interior, and materials enhance each otherand how your story, your identity comes to life in spatial design.

Together, we explore various directions until the design hits just the right note. Where necessary, we engage specialists, such as a structural engineer or building physicist, to technically and sustainably validate the plan.

In this phase, we also look at the practical side: we approach contractors to gain insight into planning and costs. This way, we ensure that the design is not only beautiful but also feasible. With the approved preliminary design, the foundation is ready for the next step: development towards realization.

Spatial design

Study models

VO drawing set

Establishing the construction team

Cost estimation

2

Preliminary Design

The initial sketches take shape in a clear layout and digital 3D models. This way, it becomes visible how exterior, interior, and materials enhance each otherand how your story, your identity comes to life in spatial design.

Together, we explore various directions until the design hits just the right note. Where necessary, we engage specialists, such as a structural engineer or building physicist, to technically and sustainably validate the plan.

In this phase, we also look at the practical side: we approach contractors to gain insight into planning and costs. This way, we ensure that the design is not only beautiful but also feasible. With the approved preliminary design, the foundation is ready for the next step: development towards realization.

Spatial design

Study models

VO drawing set

Establishing the construction team

Cost estimation

2

Preliminary Design

The initial sketches take shape in a clear layout and digital 3D models. This way, it becomes visible how exterior, interior, and materials enhance each otherand how your story, your identity comes to life in spatial design.

Together, we explore various directions until the design hits just the right note. Where necessary, we engage specialists, such as a structural engineer or building physicist, to technically and sustainably validate the plan.

In this phase, we also look at the practical side: we approach contractors to gain insight into planning and costs. This way, we ensure that the design is not only beautiful but also feasible. With the approved preliminary design, the foundation is ready for the next step: development towards realization.

Spatial design

Study models

VO drawing set

Establishing the construction team

Cost estimation

3

Final Design

In this phase, the preliminary design is finalized by fully developing it into a comprehensive plan. This results in a complete drawing set with floor plans, elevations, and sections, in which all specific information and requirements are integrated.

This process is carried out based on input from various consultants. All architectural connections are designed in detail. In addition, we prepare a proposal for electrical layouts and lighting per room, including a fixture schedule.

The outcome of this phase is a complete package: a detailed design documented in a full drawing set and accompanied by a clear project specification. With this set, full quotations can be requested.

BIM model

Design drawing set

Architectural technical detailing

Architectural details

Project description

Cost assessment

3

Final Design

In this phase, the preliminary design is finalized by fully developing it into a comprehensive plan. This results in a complete drawing set with floor plans, elevations, and sections, in which all specific information and requirements are integrated.

This process is carried out based on input from various consultants. All architectural connections are designed in detail. In addition, we prepare a proposal for electrical layouts and lighting per room, including a fixture schedule.

The outcome of this phase is a complete package: a detailed design documented in a full drawing set and accompanied by a clear project specification. With this set, full quotations can be requested.

BIM model

Design drawing set

Architectural technical detailing

Architectural details

Project description

Cost assessment

3

Final Design

In this phase, the preliminary design is finalized by fully developing it into a comprehensive plan. This results in a complete drawing set with floor plans, elevations, and sections, in which all specific information and requirements are integrated.

This process is carried out based on input from various consultants. All architectural connections are designed in detail. In addition, we prepare a proposal for electrical layouts and lighting per room, including a fixture schedule.

The outcome of this phase is a complete package: a detailed design documented in a full drawing set and accompanied by a clear project specification. With this set, full quotations can be requested.

BIM model

Design drawing set

Architectural technical detailing

Architectural details

Project description

Cost assessment

4

Permit drawings

Applying for an environmental permit can be a complex process. We take this journey entirely off your hands, so you can focus on the project itself.

From specialist basement waterproofing permits and foundation inspections to splitting or merging properties: we conduct all necessary inspections and building physics analyses. Together with our certified partners, we ensure every detail is precisely correct.

We prepare the drawings, calculations, and documents required for the formal application to the municipality. This results in a clear and feasible plan, perfectly tailored to your building and location.

Permit application

Collaborating with a Quality Assurance Expert

Basement construction Aapplication

Foundation restoration

Monumental landmarks

Environmental permit portal

4

Permit drawings

Applying for an environmental permit can be a complex process. We take this journey entirely off your hands, so you can focus on the project itself.

From specialist basement waterproofing permits and foundation inspections to splitting or merging properties: we conduct all necessary inspections and building physics analyses. Together with our certified partners, we ensure every detail is precisely correct.

We prepare the drawings, calculations, and documents required for the formal application to the municipality. This results in a clear and feasible plan, perfectly tailored to your building and location.

Permit application

Collaborating with a Quality Assurance Expert

Basement construction Aapplication

Foundation restoration

Monumental landmarks

Environmental permit portal

4

Permit drawings

Applying for an environmental permit can be a complex process. We take this journey entirely off your hands, so you can focus on the project itself.

From specialist basement waterproofing permits and foundation inspections to splitting or merging properties: we conduct all necessary inspections and building physics analyses. Together with our certified partners, we ensure every detail is precisely correct.

We prepare the drawings, calculations, and documents required for the formal application to the municipality. This results in a clear and feasible plan, perfectly tailored to your building and location.

Permit application

Collaborating with a Quality Assurance Expert

Basement construction Aapplication

Foundation restoration

Monumental landmarks

Environmental permit portal

5

Preparation for Implementation

Based on the detailed drawings and the input from the advisors, we prepare a clear and comprehensive technical specification for the contractor. We ensure that all foundational principles are clearly documented and oversee the quotation process, meticulously checking the quote(s) for completeness.

With our support in contract formation, you are assured of a reliable and smooth process, enabling you to make an informed choice for the right executing parties if this has not been laid down in an earlier stage. This way, you establish a solid foundation for the successful realization of your project.

Don't have executing parties yet? No worries, through our extensive network, we connect you with reliable parties that suit your project.

Architectural description

Quotation consultation in architectural services

Quotation review

5

Preparation for Implementation

Based on the detailed drawings and the input from the advisors, we prepare a clear and comprehensive technical specification for the contractor. We ensure that all foundational principles are clearly documented and oversee the quotation process, meticulously checking the quote(s) for completeness.

With our support in contract formation, you are assured of a reliable and smooth process, enabling you to make an informed choice for the right executing parties if this has not been laid down in an earlier stage. This way, you establish a solid foundation for the successful realization of your project.

Don't have executing parties yet? No worries, through our extensive network, we connect you with reliable parties that suit your project.

Architectural description

Quotation consultation in architectural services

Quotation review

5

Preparation for Implementation

Based on the detailed drawings and the input from the advisors, we prepare a clear and comprehensive technical specification for the contractor. We ensure that all foundational principles are clearly documented and oversee the quotation process, meticulously checking the quote(s) for completeness.

With our support in contract formation, you are assured of a reliable and smooth process, enabling you to make an informed choice for the right executing parties if this has not been laid down in an earlier stage. This way, you establish a solid foundation for the successful realization of your project.

Don't have executing parties yet? No worries, through our extensive network, we connect you with reliable parties that suit your project.

Architectural description

Quotation consultation in architectural services

Quotation review

6

Execution

During the execution, Positive Space plays a dual role: we safeguard the aesthetics of the design and advise on architectural matters. In this way, we ensure that the completed building fully aligns with the quality, atmosphere, and details defined in the earlier phases.

We attend construction meetings and are regularly present on-site to monitor progress. Any bottlenecks or questions are discussed and resolved immediately, preventing delays or misunderstandings. This means that we check if the work is being executed according to the design and specifications, and that changes or additional choices are carefully considered and documented.

In this manner, we ensure a smooth construction process where the design is implemented as envisioned and the final result meets the quality and vision agreed upon beforehand.

Architectural guidance (Aesthetic)

Advice

Solving architectural challenges

6

Execution

During the execution, Positive Space plays a dual role: we safeguard the aesthetics of the design and advise on architectural matters. In this way, we ensure that the completed building fully aligns with the quality, atmosphere, and details defined in the earlier phases.

We attend construction meetings and are regularly present on-site to monitor progress. Any bottlenecks or questions are discussed and resolved immediately, preventing delays or misunderstandings. This means that we check if the work is being executed according to the design and specifications, and that changes or additional choices are carefully considered and documented.

In this manner, we ensure a smooth construction process where the design is implemented as envisioned and the final result meets the quality and vision agreed upon beforehand.

Architectural guidance (Aesthetic)

Advice

Solving architectural challenges

6

Execution

During the execution, Positive Space plays a dual role: we safeguard the aesthetics of the design and advise on architectural matters. In this way, we ensure that the completed building fully aligns with the quality, atmosphere, and details defined in the earlier phases.

We attend construction meetings and are regularly present on-site to monitor progress. Any bottlenecks or questions are discussed and resolved immediately, preventing delays or misunderstandings. This means that we check if the work is being executed according to the design and specifications, and that changes or additional choices are carefully considered and documented.

In this manner, we ensure a smooth construction process where the design is implemented as envisioned and the final result meets the quality and vision agreed upon beforehand.

Architectural guidance (Aesthetic)

Advice

Solving architectural challenges

7

Interior (optional)

We translate ideas and wishes into thoughtful, functional, and aesthetic interiors. With a keen eye for space, light, and materials, we create environments that not only look beautiful but truly work.

Residential Design: From layout to atmosphere, we design living spaces that reflect the lifestyle of the residents and evoke a true sense of home.

Office Design: Efficient, inspiring, and future-oriented, we create workplaces that foster both productivity and well-being, while cultivating a sense of community.

Retail Design: With a strong brand experience and strategic layout, we transform your brand into a three-dimensional offline experience that attracts and engages customers.

Spatial design

Comprehensive architectural design

Besproke furniture

Retail design

Workspace design

Kitchen design

7

Interior (optional)

We translate ideas and wishes into thoughtful, functional, and aesthetic interiors. With a keen eye for space, light, and materials, we create environments that not only look beautiful but truly work.

Residential Design: From layout to atmosphere, we design living spaces that reflect the lifestyle of the residents and evoke a true sense of home.

Office Design: Efficient, inspiring, and future-oriented, we create workplaces that foster both productivity and well-being, while cultivating a sense of community.

Retail Design: With a strong brand experience and strategic layout, we transform your brand into a three-dimensional offline experience that attracts and engages customers.

Spatial design

Comprehensive architectural design

Besproke furniture

Retail design

Workspace design

Kitchen design

7

Interior (optional)

We translate ideas and wishes into thoughtful, functional, and aesthetic interiors. With a keen eye for space, light, and materials, we create environments that not only look beautiful but truly work.

Residential Design: From layout to atmosphere, we design living spaces that reflect the lifestyle of the residents and evoke a true sense of home.

Office Design: Efficient, inspiring, and future-oriented, we create workplaces that foster both productivity and well-being, while cultivating a sense of community.

Retail Design: With a strong brand experience and strategic layout, we transform your brand into a three-dimensional offline experience that attracts and engages customers.

Spatial design

Comprehensive architectural design

Besproke furniture

Retail design

Workspace design

Kitchen design

OUR TEAM

Marc Brummelhuis

architect / owner

Marc Brummelhuis

architect / owner

Marc Brummelhuis

architect / owner

ABOUT

Marc Brummelhuis (1985), studied Architecture at the University of Applied Sciences in Utrecht and graduated in 2014 as an Architect from the Amsterdam Academy of Architecture.

Between 2006 and 2015, he worked at Concrete Architectural Associates. In 2015, he transitioned to Standard Studio, where he was a partner and architect until mid-2020.

In mid-2020, he launched his own studio: Positive Space. The studio focuses on sustainable architecture and spatial interventions. This includes new builds, renovations, and extensions, as well as interiors that address spatial challenges.