Reviving an urban fringe

VrijHaven is divided into twelve small-scale residential blocks, each with its own character and entrance, located on top of and next to the Oerplint. The robust character of the Havenstraatterrein is reimagined with the use of harvested and reused façade materials. The varied mix of shell, studio and duplex apartments and lofts has a flexible layout. The residential blocks are designed by Team V Architectuur, Joppe Kusters and Powerhouse Company.

The courtyards, designed by DELVA Landscape Architects, are in contrast with the hustle and bustle of the street. A continuous railway track forms a legible, circular route through the neighbourhood. The various stops along the track are transformed into informal meeting spaces for residents. An art route in the public space further enhances this walking route. The gates, outer walls, underpasses and stairwells become a canvas for street art.

The monumental plinth with Kopgebouw and the new tram shed play an important role as carriers of the identity of the design vision. Studio Donna van Milligen Bielke has designed this Oerplint as a robust and monumental ode to the area’s rich history. The space around the building blocks is designed in such a way that it can be appropriated by residents, in true Amsterdam fashion, to strengthen the connection with the street.

Of the commercial plinth programme, 50% is assigned to crafters, manufacturers and artists at a reduced rate. The historical trams will be exhibited and renovated in the tram shed. The roof of the tram shed is transformed into VrijPlaats: in addition to a fixed programme, film screenings, small-scale events and exhibitions can be organised here.

VrijHaven will be an energy-efficient, healthy and energy-supplying district. By designing the development parametrically and in balance with spatial quality, VrijHaven becomes an EnergieHaven. In combination with ambitious energy-saving methods, VrijHaven achieves impressive BENG scores. The entire district is connected to a smart grid to reduce energy costs, CO₂ emissions and grid congestion.

VrijHaven is realized with minimal environmental impact and maximum value for the future. More than half of the materials are reused, recycled or bio-based. Urban Mining Concrete is used for the plinth, with a wooden construction for the building blocks that land on the plinth. Through mitigating measures such as a mobility hub on the edge of the plan, mini-hubs per block and various types of shared mobility, cars are banned from the streets and pedestrians and cyclists are given priority.