Let’s look at an example from an advanced city like Amsterdam, with this project of 442 apartments, including 1,000 m² of accommodation facilities, 112 m² of commercial space, a shared rooftop garden, and a shared courtyard. This same ratio should be considered on an urban scale, even in a city like Rome, where the short-term vacation rental market is poorly regulated, especially concerning attention to density per area.
The Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and Barcode Architects developed and built a unique building in IJburg, “SLUISHUIS,” a residential district under construction in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The site is located in the IJmeer and was created on artificial islands raised in the lake.
Sluishuis is one of the most sustainable buildings recently completed, with an energy performance coefficient (EPC) of 0.00.
From every angle, the volume of Sluishuis is perceived differently. The structure is lifted on one side to allow water to flow into the courtyard and sloped on the other side, according to the architects, to make an inviting gesture toward IJburg.
Project Description
Sluishuis is an iconic residential project in Amsterdam IJburg, designed by BIG and Barcode Architects and built by VORM and BESIX. The building, positioned on the water, offers a modern interpretation of Amsterdam’s typical building block, with a volume lifted on one side to let water enter the courtyard and terraced green slopes on the other side.
The building houses 442 apartments, offering a variety of housing types for different target groups and income levels. There are also duplex penthouses and apartments suspended over the water with spectacular views. The ground floor includes a sailing school, a water sports center, a restaurant, and a pier promenade with floating gardens and spaces for spontaneous gatherings.
Sluishuis aims to stimulate and strengthen the connection between residents and visitors. The staggered balconies create surprising visual lines and encourage interaction. The public rooftop path, the children’s play area in the courtyard, the pier promenade, and the arrangement of wooden terraces on the roof promote spontaneous meetings.
Built with natural materials like aluminum and wood, Sluishuis combines modern design and sustainability, with an EPC of 0.00 and about 2,200 m² of solar panels. The local gardens and green terraces contribute to a natural and welcoming atmosphere, making Sluishuis an iconic gateway to Amsterdam IJburg)
