AMSTERDAM
A STUDY ON MINIMALISTIC SELF SUSTAINING URBAN BLOCKS WITH GRASSROOT PLANNING.
Population 1.6 M Green Density 87.5 Sq.m/ inhabitant Density 12700 Global Ranking 7
• • • • •
How can you transform a disused industrial area into a lively residential and commercial district without using a top-down master plan? And how can you also boost social and technological innovation to realise the circular ambitions of the area? These are pivotal questions for Cityplot Buiksloterham, which started as an experimental site and is now taking shape The dynamic masterplan retains individuality while engaging residents to shape their own city. As opposed to a traditional urban plan with a fixed end result, Cityplot Buiksloterham will keep evolving. The small scale and mixed-use nature of Cityplots supports ongoing dialogue This is essential for community engagement; dialogue between architecture, functions and participants, and between the city and the economy.
BUIKSLOTERHAM
• •
Size 220 Sq.Km
• • • • • • • •
Architecturally, the concept here translates into three compact plots north of City Center. They are each based on an ideal plot size of 100×100 METRES This generous size not only provides scope to accommodate DIVERSE BUILDING TYPOLOGIES but also allows the format of the block to be opened up from the street as well as internally. PUBLIC, SEMI-PUBLIC, COLLECTIVE, AND PRIVATE SPACES alternate on DIFFERENT LEVELS and contribute to the creation of the circular city. their surroundings, the PUBLIC SPACE and the WATERFRONT are developed as well. A collective, energetic process whereby SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS are coupled with and converge in the public space. Started off as a testing ground for innovative urban development, Cityplot Buiksloterham presents architecture, public space and landscape as one COMPLETE INTEGRATED SYSTEM.
DESIGN OF BLOCK Building activities have started to transform the monofunctional industrial district into a vibrant new part of Amsterdam that will function as a living urban lab. Developments include 550 residences and at least 4,000 m2 of work units and hospitality locations.
At the same time, homes, parks and sports facilities are constantly being built and refurbished. The district is home to a mix of locals and international newcomers across a number of different professions.
ENERGY
Multi Mixed
INFERENCES • • • •
Use
Grassroots planning helps with the community to decide on the design and morphology of the urban block Compared to the existing Urban Blocks, this block takes a different approach by having high density yet retaining the same green spaces percentage so that affordability goes up and green spaces do not go down. Minimalist planning helps in creating essential spaces with the least ground intervention without compromising the quality of the living spaces. Self Sufficient Energy from renewable sources within the block.
Sustainable Urban Block
Vineetha, Esther | 19171NB003,002 | M. Arch ED, JBRAC