THIS. - Amsterdam
THIS. changes the perspective on inner-city living, with unrivalled views over the IJ and direct access to the lush green waterfront, a true urban oasis. THIS. is the place where people can work and live without having to go anywhere else.
THIS. presents an ensemble of a new office building and four residential buildings on the open water of the IJ, in a programmed, nature-inclusive landscape. The buildings and new greenery will thus be located in a spacious and spectacular setting, with the bustling centre of Amsterdam just minutes away.
THIS. is a new residential and working area that seamlessly blends into, and fulfils ambitions from, the Raamwerk Buiksloterham, drawn up by DELVA and the City of Amsterdam.
The added value of landscape design is not to present a landscape that looks natural, but to create the landscape in such a way that the people staying in it will feel natural.
– Steven Delva
The Hidden Garden
We looked at what the location has to offer. One of the most unique features are the spectacular views. THIS. asked for an open facade and a large roof terrace with an atmospheric public space. The roof terrace maximises the potential of the place and offers unrivalled views over the IJ.
The living and office gardens are connected by The Hidden Garden. This hidden garden characterises the project, helping THIS. perfectly combine the high, bustling urban energy with the more serene surroundings of Amsterdam-Noord. Besides the active bank park on the IJ, we create peace and security through the spectacular The Hidden Garden. A playful network of footpaths winds between the trees, ornamental grasses and perennials. Native flora, forest floor cover and lush shade-loving plants provide seasonal experiences.
By alternating between multi-stemmed trees, shrubs, ferns and grasses, we create an interplay of light and shade. The undulating surface in the hidden garden provides a dynamic experience of the landscape and alternating interesting sightlines and natural privacy. The indoor garden is an exciting landscape for young children to explore and play in.
Where the courtyard garden is a cool, shady place for relaxation and meeting, the expansive IJpark on the waterfront offers a sun-drenched space with spectacular views over the IJ and the Amsterdam cityscape. The large open grassy area features trees providing shade and large rock elements, a nod to the area’s industrial history. The open design of the IJpark allows for flexible programming throughout the day. Visitors can play sports in the park, relax in the grass and cool off at the water’s edge via the steps.
The Hidden Garden satisfies the need for nature in the heart of the city.
– Sander van den Bosch
To unwind
THIS. shows what waterfront living and working should look like. We took advantage of the dynamic view created by the constantly changing water landscape, with the traffic of ferries, ships and boats. Breathtaking skies and sunsets reinforce this. Openings between the office and residential buildings provide optimum orientation toward the sun and ensure they all have fantastic views. The Hidden Garden creates space and light within the block. The greenery and winding paths offer a sense of intimacy and tranquillity in the city.
THIS. is a place where you can connect with nature.
– Rex van Beijsterveldt
Small but pleasant ecosystem
With THIS. we are adding a new vibrant place to Amsterdam-Noord. Unique for its views and facilities such as The Hidden Garden. The increase in remote work due to COVID-19 led to a growing need for work environments that encourage interaction between people and fuel innovation. THIS. is a social hub offering the perfect work-life balance, while enjoying a panoramic horizon, surrounded by water and close to the city centre. We want to create a place to feel at home while strengthening the social and architectural coherence with its surroundings.
THIS. is a collaboration between RED Company, DW Property, Powerhouse Company, DELVA, Van Rossum Raadgevende Ingenieurs, DGMR, SmitsRinsma, Van Kessel, VolkerWessels, Van Losser Groep and Wessels Rijssen.
- Location
- Amsterdam-Noord
- Status
- Final design
- Client
- RED Company, DW Property
- Together with
- Powerhouse Company, DELVA, Van Rossum Raadgevende Ingenieurs, DGMR, SmitsRinsma, Van Kessel, VolkerWessels, Van Losser Groep, Wessels Rijssen