Housing block with undulating balustrade

The master plan for Haveneiland (IJburg) consists of a rough grid pattern infilled with rectangular urban blocks. Between the housing block 46a on Julius Pergerstraat and the large-scale IJburg College on the corner of Pampuslaan, is the more small-scale block 46c. The brief was to realize a residential building between the existing blocks 46 a and b and thereby complete block 46. By rotating the new development a quarter turn in relation to the adjacent buildings, an open space for a public square was created on top of the parking garage.

The five-storey building contains 64 social rental dwellings. The dwellings on the ground floor have their front door in the square, the studio dwellings are accessed on the street side, while entry to the dwellings above is at the side of the building and via a gallery walkway. Block 46c does not have the look or the feel of gallery flats. By giving extra attention to the balustrades, materiality and detailing, the architects have succeeded in creating high-quality floor plans and an exciting exterior.

The so-called wave railings consist of steel tubes that are bent halfway along. The topmost tubes are positioned at different angles, giving rise to an undulating form. In order to prevent whistling noises, the tubes are provided with specially designed caps. The wavy form also alludes to the ever-present wind here on IJburg. The spacious balconies and terraces are situated on the building’s quiet side.

The public square is also used as a playground by pupils at the neighbouring IJburg College. White circles have been painted on the ground and different sized concrete elements are positioned here and there. This seating and play apparatus is called ‘Henk’. In 2012, the project won the Zuiderkerkprijs, an annual award for the best housing project in Amsterdam. (ARCAM/ YK)