In a timeline when numerous building designs fail to address or key in the factor of social engagement, Terrazza designed by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland, Amsterdam comes up with the right answers without compromising on aesthetics.
As we become globalized day by day, its impact on the built environment and the buildings which surround us have been a matter of both debate and scrutiny. In the view of such developments, architects and designers consistently try to come up with better designs for buildings. Designs which will offer the occupant the much-needed comfort of a home and also let them socialize with the world outside their home.
Terrazza designed by M3H Architects in Zeeburgereiland, Amsterdam is one such project. Spread across 3000 sq.mts this sculptural building establishes a connection with the neighborhood on every side. In a way Terrazza is a home not only to the residents who live there, but also to everyone in the neighbourhood because of the public courtyards. It is an open space where anyone can meet, socialize and enjoy a bit of green in the new district of Amsterdam.
The public-friendly character is even more reflected in the design of the building. The facades have a special appearance due to the horizontal and vertical stacked brick. The spacious double-height main entrances and the large fronts at street level make the building feel very accessible. The ensemble consists of three building parts that rise in steps. The height of the volumes is in line with the surrounding buildings; on the north side 12 meters high and on the south side the height accents up to 36 meters.
Two green gardens are situated between the brick buildings. Each courtyard with its own character and surrounded by houses with a small garden or a balcony screened off with a brick edge. This creates intimate green courtyards, a habitat for people, plants and animals. In short, it’s a residential building for the entire neighborhood which takes into account green and social sustainability.
Terrazza has a different view from every angle. Staggered balconies and the alternation of large fronts and slit windows provide a lively and spatial image. This is also due to the different masonry bonds. Two sand-colored bricks from Brunsummer clay, from the Engels Steenfabriek in Oeffelt were utilized to good effect. The colors of the frames, roof trim and the prefab concrete match ton-sur-ton with the colors of the bricks.
The building design is a testament to the foreplay of craftsmanship and design variation. Even the 122 letterboxes have been designed with great care. The reflection of design diversity is not only limited to the external part of the building but also its interiors. Each home has a specially designed floor plan.
The buildings contain a wide variety of residences, both in size and type. The architects designed no less than 44 floor plans for this project. From compact study to roof villa: it can all be found in Terrazza!
Connect Online@ www.m3h.nl
