Hidden Urban Interior

architects Meyer & Van Schooten architecten, Medić & Puljiz (de Architekten Cie.), Heren 5
project La Grande Cour, Amsterdam, Netherlands
written by Mascha van Damme

 

The former train depot at Westerdokseiland (Western Dock Island) in Amsterdam has made way for a modern urban landscape with high-density housing and a mix of functions. The island is part of the south bank of the IJ waterway and forms a link between the Silodam situated to the north and Stationseiland to the south. It is an eye-catching location bounded by the open water of the IJ, with only railway tracks separating it from the historic inner city. The bulk of the requisite 900 homes are accommodated in four blocks.