Bringing both an anthropological and architectural sensitivity to the project, West 8 undertook a unique, detailed analysis of the cultural, historic and architectural layers of the district to create a supplementary research document to inform the district’s future development.
In collaboration with University of Amsterdam (UvA) and the Municipality of Amsterdam, West 8 have created a spatial vision to preserve, restore and renew the Universiteitskwartier in the historic heart of the city centre. A new ceremonial heart for the UvA, the plan creates a new Humanities district for the University, by opening up various hidden courtyards as well as marking the historic boundaries more clearly.
Marking and outlining where historic buildings can be adapted, restored and renovated to become suitable for modern use.
With the key message of POORTEN – HOVEN – STEGEN (Gates – Courtyards – Alleys), the strategic creation of entry points and greenery within the urban fabric enables the streetscape and inner courtyards to be opened up and activated for the local community, the university community and the public to enjoy. To highlight the potential of the larger plan’s message, West 8 also created and tested a series of ‘Kavel Paspoorten’ to act as case studies for the successful implementation of the vision document on specific key sites within the district.
West 8 urban designers Adriaan Geuze en Penne Hangelbroek worked in close collaboration with Municipality city planners Ton Schaap and Meijer-Skouratovskaja and the UvA to incorporate the feedback from an extended series of public consultation events led by Guido Wallagh and integrate the larger goals of the City of Amsterdam’s ‘Aanpak Binnenstad’ programme which focuses on the restoration of national monuments and sustainability upgrades for the urban realm.
West 8 was appointed as the strategic masterplanner for the city campus in 2018, and the plans were approved by the City of Amsterdam on the 9th of July, 2021.
Client/Collaborators
University of Amsterdam (UvA) and the Municipality of Amsterdam
Imagery
© West 8
