The first residential tower in the ’Bajeskwartier’ presented by Barcode Architects

We're proud to present the final design for The Robin, the first residential tower in the 'Bajeskwartier.' This area is a lively living and working space located on the former site of Amsterdam's iconic Bijlmerbajes prison complex. The Bajeskwartier is a great example of how former prisons can be transformed into thriving community hubs.

The Robin will be prominently located in the Central District, at the intersection of the two main axes of the area. In the design, one of the original white prison towers will be rebuilt and extended by three interlocking, lower volumes. These 'boxes' will be raised 4.5 meters off the ground, creating a light and inviting plinth with public functions at ground levels, such as a service center and daycare center. The opening of the plinth all around the building creates a stronger connection between the interior of the building and its urban context. This invigorates the public space around the building, making it more lively.

Dirk Peters, partner Barcode Architects:

The atrium at the core of the building is both impressive and unexpected. This six-story high open space is the vibrant heart of the building and provides space for a multitude of functions, such as exhibitions, extensive artworks, and public events for the neighborhood. For both residents and visitors, this provides a unique experience."

The atrium follows the historic line of the Bajestoren (prison tower) and runs from the entrance hall to the first roof terrace, linking the main communal areas. Openings in the walls provide views of the atrium’s activities from the floors.

Residential program and green roof terraces

The residential program we offer comprises 129 apartments that will fit the needs of any and all target groups. Our bright and spacious residences come in the form of compact studios to expansive lofts and each one comes with a variety of high-quality outdoor spaces. Green roof terraces have been constructed on top of each of our three low blocks and they provide plenty of additional outdoor space for all residents of the building. These collective terraces are located on different floors, creating a natural interplay between the buildings and those who occupy them. The landscaping on the large roof terraces gives the building an attractive, green appearance all around. It also helps reduce heat stress and water storage in the area.

The building - like the entire Bajeskwartier - will be designed and built to be circular. This means that part of the original prison wall will have a new lease on life in the design and that a large portion of the raw materials used will come from the demolition of the old Bajes buildings. In addition, The Robin will have PV panels installed on the roof as well as the tallest block, and nature-inclusive additions such as nesting boxes for birds and bats, green roofs, and insect hotels.

The building is a clear dialogue between old and new, between the massive and light. The gold-colored, open grid facade of the three low-rise volumes has human proportions, while the concrete facade of the tower is more closed. The dimensions of the tower follow the structure of the original Bajestoren. The fifth layer of the tower has floor-to-ceiling glass panes, providing a unique quality to the apartments behind. This intersection of concrete volumes gives a pleasant scale and size and makes a nod to the architecture of the past.

The Bijlmerbajes, a prison complex made up of six iconic towers connected by a central corridor known as the Kalverstraat, was one of the most famous prisons in the Netherlands from 1978 to 2016. In 2019, OMA, LOLA Landscape Architects, and FABRlCations created a master plan for the area that envisions it as a green, vibrant city quarter with around 1,350 homes, international allure, and an important role in the design, art, and sustainable interventions.

The Bajeskwartier is a development located in Overamstel, by Bajes Kwartier Ontwikkeling C.V., a partnership between AM, Cairn, and AT Capital. Construction of The Robin is expected to begin in late 2022 and be completed in late 2024.

 

 

Project Name: The Robin Bajeskwatier
Studio Name: Barcode Architects