nature-inclusive courtyard
The City of Amsterdam formalised an overview of guidelines for the designs at the allocated lot. We were required to create green roofs with water retention and a give room for a range of biodiversity and bird life.
The basement follows the footprint of the building in order to give nature as much space as possible. These enables space for large trees and pond areas. The courtyard is for the residents and the biodiversity. Birds and plants were the starting point for the noise barrier. All roofs have different qualities such as an energy roof, vegetation, activity roof and water retention.
landscaped courtyard as a central ecosystem
The undulating surface in the hidden garden provides a dynamic experience of the landscape and varied interesting sight lines and natural privacy. The courtyard is an exciting landscape for residents to discover and play in.
A natural appearance has been chosen in the materialization of the courtyard. The selected materials are durable and fit perfectly in the color palette of the facades. The facade forms a natural habitat for human and non-human. Multi-stemmed shrubs and perennials ensure the privacy of the terraces.
Terraces also offer a green place to relax, where rainwater is buffered and drained slowly into the courtyard.
We collaborated with landscape architect Atelier Loos van Vliet to create a courtyard fitting in this location. The landscape architect was inspired by forests with peaceful streams. Our urban oasis is a green paradise where both humans and animals feel at home, a place to relax and enjoy the natural splendour.
Nest boxes are hung on the steel construction for the needs of the birds that live in the area. In the design, number and position of the nest boxes are carefully tailored to the specific requirements of the different bird species. This takes into account factors such as the size and shape of the cabinets, as well as the height and orientation.
Climate is a priority in our material choices; we use natural materials with a low impact on the environment. For this we choose for the Ciclo Bricks in two colors with wooden cladding and matching window frames and gallery floors. The color palette fits very well with old fruit seeds to create a natural path in the garden.
