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Master Plan Steigereiland, Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a long tradition of construction on water. In past centuries, extensive parts of the IJ were filled in for future development of the city, notably leading to creation of harbour islands at the eastern end towards the ‘Zuiderzee’ (later the IJsselmeer). The islands in the eastern harbour district have now all been transformed into residential areas that are very popular on the Amsterdam housing market.

The direct connection between the city and both the IJmeer and the IJsselmeer was lost due to the construction of locks (Oranjesluizen) in 1872. The construction of IJburg east of the locks restores this connection.

The spatial programme for IJburg includes a mixture of functions to create a fully-fledged, multi-coloured urban area. It acknowledges that the life of the modern city-dweller is not always footloose, busy and anonymous, but that there is also a tendency to appreciate traditional values like living together in one place.

Though IJburg should be regarded as one neighbourhood, each individual island is intended to be given its own character and qualities. Two distinguishing characteristics are predominant in the identity to be developed for Steigereiland: the presence of large-scale urban and landscape elements, and the concept of self-commissioned housing. IJburg will be a mixed urban neighbourhood, including employment opportunities for 12,000 people. The relation between jobs and inhabitants can be compared to the 19th century neighbourhoods in the city.

As far as possible, jobs on most islands will be mixed in with housing. On Steigereiland this will be done in different ways: with small-scale workspace on the ground floor, a multi-functional building among the houses, and a small-scale industrial estate. This offers workspace to different kinds of businesses; businesses can start from home and grow further elsewhere in the neighbourhood.

The Jury said: Amsterdam IJburg, a new multi-functional development in land claimed from the sea, integrates traditional and new approaches to solving the problem of land shortage. A residential complex of 18,000 residential units and 12,000 jobs is to be located within the IJmeer, an area of great natural value. Two key principles in the programme and implementation of the proposal are independence and opportunities for participation at the neighbourhood level.

The project was commended for its well-balanced approach, which takes into consideration all ecological, social and economical factors necessary for the success of the development. The project provides a good example of large-scale development fostering the creation of a vibrant local community while respecting the individual needs of residents. The scheme is a good example for the extension of cities on water.

The Jury said:
Amsterdam IJburg, a new multi-functional development in land claimed from the sea, integrates traditional and new approaches to solving the problem of land shortage. A residential complex of 18,000 residential units and 12,000 jobs is to be located within the IJmeer, an area of great natural value. Two key principles in the programme and implementation of the proposal are independence and opportunities for participation at the neighbourhood level.

The project was commended for its well-balanced approach, which takes into consideration all ecological, social and economical factors necessary for the success of the development. The project provides a good example of large-scale development fostering the creation of a vibrant local community while respecting the individual needs of residents. The scheme is a good example for the extension of cities on water.