Masterplan The Oosterdokseiland is a key area in the redevelopment of the south bank of the IJ River in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It connects the inner city with the newly developed living and working areas on the old harbour piers along the IJ. The Amsterdam City Council and developer MAB commissioned Erick van Egeraat to design a masterplan for the area in order to assess the feasibility of the proposed brief and site and to provide a framework for the spatial and programmatic possibilities of the redevelopment. The result is a unique urban model for the southern part of the island that faces the inner harbour and creates a vibrant city environment. At the same time, it maintains the identity and atmosphere of this distinctive location in Amsterdam.
The building plots are defined by radiating streets, a characteristic theme in Amsterdam, and contain a diverse and dense mix of functions. Public space plays an important role by connecting to the various building programmes and activities as well as to a waterfront quay with optimal harbour views. The design of the masterplan for Oosterdokseiland is defined by a high density and varied mix of functions, it creates a distinctly urban architectural solution as an extension of the inner city. For the architectural development of the individual plots twelve international architects, including Erick van Egeraat, were selected to progress the design of the largest site to date of downtown Amsterdam.
Sustainability At present, the general concept of sustainability in architecture and the building industry is largely dependent on our ever-evolving understanding of typology, technology and the use of materials. Erick van Egeraat’s broader vision on sustainability adds to this concept the aim to create and maintain a timeless value. Factors like density, spatial quality, compactness, mixed-use and accessibility may be less quantifiably ‘green’, but they do compose a serious impact on the sustainable character of a building. As such, they considerably expand the current perception of ‘green architecture’.
This vision is clearly present in the case of Oosterdokseiland. Although it has strong ties to its historic context, the design looks to the future as well by offering sustainable qualities and solutions. The multifunctional and flexible programme of the plan saves space and encourages users to share facilities. The high building density makes it possible to reach an exceptionally high level of energy efficiency through the use of a long-term energy storage system in the ground.
