A MOORED CRUISE SHIP

THIS RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ON THE NORTH BANK OF THE RIVER IJ, OPPOSITE AMSTERDAM CENTRAL STATION, BY ORANGE ARCHITECTS, IS WRAPPED WITH CONCRETE COLUMNS.

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The Line, a residential complex in Amsterdam, fronts onto the IJ waterway in the Overhoeks district like a moored cruise ship. Sitting on private verandas behind the refined grid that wraps the building like a veil, residents enjoy views of the water and the city centre. The verandas are real outdoor rooms, with their ceiling design making them feel like an extension of the interior space.

GETTING ALL THE DAYLIGHT

The building faces in all directions, creating a vibrant appearance all around. The underground car park supports a shared courtyard garden that has a light feel because the building is raised slightly above ground level. The density of development in the district provides sufficient daylight at street level as a key design objective. The setbacks on the upper floors ensure good daylight conditions on the lower floors.

DYNAMICALLY VARIED

Containing 72 rental apartments, the building is located in the middle of Overhoeks, a dynamic residential and employment area, with buildings and greenery interspersing with one another in a campus-like setting. The area is also close to urban functions and the city centre.