Construction of the IJgenwijs new-build project officially started on Thursday 30 September 2021. IJgenwijs consists of 34 new-build properties which have been developed on a co-commissioning basis. Representatives from KondorWessels Vastgoed, the municipality of Amsterdam, Bébouw Midreth and Elephant architects symbolically drove the first pile into the ground to signal the start of construction.
The development comprises 34 sustainable properties with floor areas varying from 60 to 150 m², in one of the most unique locations in the Randstad conurbation. It is a perfect balance between greenery, light, privacy and openness. Each apartment is to have a spacious balcony on the inside and large windows in the facade, overlooking lots of greenery.
Co-commissioning
The fact that the project is being constructed on a co-commissioning basis means future residents can join in the decision-making on the layout of their home and the materials used.
As Marijn Verheij, one of the developers involved in IJgenwijs, explains, ‘Co-commissioning is time-consuming, but also produces inspiring and creative ideas, for example the communal courtyard garden and the possibility of residents sharing ideas on the layout of their homes. It makes the residents feel their voice is being heard and makes their properties more unique.’
The co-commissioning initiative started in mid 2019 and during the process, the future residents decided to choose the shape and detailing of the properties together with experts from Elephant architects, under the supervision of KondorWessels Vastgoed. The feeling which the Elephant architects tried to give the residential building is one of security and a green heart.
As Marijn Verheij adds, ‘The neighbourhood is served by the IJ tram which means that future residents can quickly access the centre of Amsterdam for work, a drink, or dinner.’
The neighbourhood is traffic calmed and that creates a peaceful environment for its residents. The focus of the new urban district is primarily on cyclists, walkers and children playing.
Erik Segeren sums it up quite nicely, ‘The neighbourhood has plenty to offer to nature lovers and city people alike. It is a place with plenty of greenery, water, sports and leisure facilities, as well as hospitality venues, childcare facilities, supermarkets and delis. The properties match the wishes of their residents. Now and in the future.’
IJgenwijs is going to be completed in the third quarter of 2022.
If you would like to find out more: → https://www.ijgenwijsamsterdam.nl