Winner of the Zuiderkerk Prize 2021!
The apartment complex in the heart of Spaarndammerbuurt, with its nesting stones and promising gardens, is an ideal place for people, plants, and animals alike.
In the center of the Spaarndammerbuurt in Amsterdam, an apartment complex rises: Spaarndammerhart – De Verbinding. This apartment complex, along with its associated private and communal outdoor spaces, was designed by DS, architects KorthTielens and Marcel Lok, and artist Martijn Sandberg, and commissioned by Heijmans Real Estate BV. The landowner is the Municipality of Amsterdam.
Objective
The key principles of the new development are to preserve the existing trees, enhance biodiversity, and maintain as natural view as possible from the surrounding homes. Additionally, there is a strong focus on strengthening neighborhood cohesion through the shared use of space. All of this ensures that the investment in Spaarndammerhart is an investment in housing for both people and nature.
Design
DS conducted an inventory and analysis of the existing trees for the design. The outdoor space is divided into three distinct atmospheres: the courtyard, the grove, and the gardens. The inner courtyard is an intimate space, rich in grasses and climbing plants, and part of the public walking route through the block. The grove is a shared, natural garden area for relaxation and play. Together with the features integrated into the façades, the special planting offers a variety of nesting and shelter opportunities for small animals.
Details
The planting is tailored to provide food for the anticipated urban wildlife, such as small songbirds, bats, and insects. The “water-retention roof” captures rainwater and nourishes the plants. Nest boxes for small birds, swifts, and bats are integrated into the projecting roof edges and façades (see photos).
