To house education, research, students, newcomers and start-ups all in one place – that was the idea of OZ architects for its campus project. The result is a mixed-use quarter in Amsterdam-Noord with varied architecture on an impressive scale.

The former NDSM shipyard is located directly by the IJ in Amsterdam-Noord and has become a cultural hotspot in the capital city. Alongside education, leisure, offices and artist studios, increasing numbers of apartments are finding their place in the urban area. This includes what is probably the largest mixed-use quarter in Amsterdam: De Werf. It encompasses seven buildings, containing almost a thousand apartments with a total area of 74,000 square meters. The basic concept was to create attractive, modern student apartments. The end result goes far beyond this and offers a wide variety of living and leisure opportunities. The varied use of the buildings is also reflected in the architecture. 

A harmonious complex

The desire for dense construction, which was specified in the construction plans, was implemented in the design by OZ architects using different building heights, ranging from 22 to 60 metres. The materials range from concrete, steel and corten steel to brickwork in different colours. As a result, each building has its own personality and stands out from the buildings around it. The division of the large blocks into different volumes differentiates the buildings from each other and breaks up the large complex.

The robust, simple architecture underlines the playful character of the quarter, while drawing on the history of the location. The interior is also inspired by the NDSM shipyard. Accordingly, both the interior and exterior architecture are designed with the surrounding environment in mind. Although the shipyard to longer exists, the building complex neighbours a harbour of the IJ. Ferries and private boats pass through the canal on a daily basis and dock directly behind De Werf. Six of the seven buildings are covered with generous glass surfaces, so that residents can experience the unique atmosphere and enjoy views of the surrounding water. Protruding and recessed balconies offer additional opportunities to enjoy the surroundings. As it can get very windy on the upper floors and the rooms facing the harbour are exposed to higher levels of noise, buildings C and E are fitted with weather-resistant and sound-insulting balcony glazing. 

Sheltered balconies

Sliding all-glass elements mounted on a glass balustrade give residents maximum flexibility. These can be opened as required, to retain the open-air character. When closed, the balconies are quiet and sheltered from the wind. The sliding all-glass elements feature the SL 25 system from Solarlux, the specialist for moving windows and facade solutions. The frameless balcony glazing offers maximum transparency while preserving the view of the nearby harbour. It also keeps out rain, wind, and noise up to a level of 22 dB. Six glass elements are installed on each balcony. These can be moved to the left or right, glide around corners and can be turned to save space when parked, so that they are secure, even when exposed to strong wind. This allows the pergola to be used all year round, providing residents with additional space. 

“Despite the differing facades, the individual buildings combine to form a harmonious unit. This is the most impressive aspect of the project for me. The flat glazing from Solarlux blends perfectly into the overall aesthetic and complements the simple architecture. We are particularly impressed by its flexibility. Combined with the glass balustrade, it reduces the level of noise and offers residents increased comfort,” says Koos Zwitser.

Variety in all facets

Just as varied as the architecture of the seven buildings is their use. As well as one-bedroom apartments for students, family apartments and two or three-bedroom apartments, they also contain studios that combine work and living. Residential buildings alternate with art workshops, restaurants and workspaces in the form of studios and study rooms for students. Various medical services are also available. As part of the various public spaces, the community garden is accessible on the site of the NDSM shipyard. It also serves as a welcome green space in the urban environment of the quarter. De Werf not only offers its residents an attractive location, but the option to live, work and enjoy their free time, all in one place. 

The apartments in De Werf are specially designed for young people. The idea is to offer a suitable home to young residents, from the start of their studies to the start of their career – a time that is usually associated with lots of relocations before finally settling down. “Demand for student apartments is very high in Amsterdam,” explains the architect Koos Zwitser of OZ architects. “The NDSM shipyard is the ideal location, as its festivals and restaurants make it familiar terrain for students. De Werf will bring even more life to the area.”