Perched on the water, what appears to be floating is actually the Sluishuis. This architectural marvel redefines waterside living in Amsterdam. Opened on July 13, 2022, the Sluishuis stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainable living.
The City of Amsterdam held a competition for an image-defining building. The winning design came from Bjarke Ingels Group and Barcode Architects. These firms collaborated to create this unique structure. The Sluishuis is 52 metres tall. It features angled cut-off facades and a large opening for boats.
The building’s unusual shape posed significant construction challenges. BESIX, the structural engineer, built two concrete walls as backbones. Apartment units are suspended from these walls. Piles were driven 60 metres into the ground. The exterior is clad in aluminum sheets. Construction started in December 2018.
The Sluishuis has 442 apartment units. These range from 40 to 180 square metres. Around the building is a publicly accessible jetty. Here, there is space for 34 houseboats. Its unusual shape makes the building appear to float. The Sluishuis offers residents a unique living experience.
Two staircases lead past the terraces to the roof. From there, a walkway provides city views. The City of Amsterdam requires the stairs to be open to the public at least 80 days a year. The Sluishuis is also a sustainable building. It boasts an Energy Performance Coefficient of 0.00. Solar panels provide energy for lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Triple-insulated glass and a heat pump system enhance energy efficiency.
The Sluishuis integrates with Amsterdam’s architectural character. It balances creativity with practicality. The building offers both beauty and livability. It connects residents to the water and the city. The design emphasizes harmony with the natural environment.
The Sluishuis features passive design principles. These optimize natural light and ventilation. High-performance insulation enhances thermal comfort. Eco-friendly materials minimize embodied carbon.
The Sluishuis embodies a holistic approach to urban living. It offers diverse housing options. Commercial spaces on the ground floor add dynamism. Courtyards, green spaces, and terraces offer relaxation. Shared facilities encourage social interaction.
From every angle, the Sluishuis surprises. Whether on the dike, motorway, or bridge, it offers unique views. The walkway to the roof offers spectacular views. The jetty promenade stimulates contact with the water. The landscape encourages local flora and fauna. With new housing typologies and high-quality outdoor spaces, the Sluishuis forms a welcoming entrance to Amsterdam IJburg. Its design fosters a sense of community and connection with nature.