Careful densification in Amsteldorp

Amsteldorp, a green and close-knit neighborhood in Amsterdam-Oost, built after World War II, is undergoing a careful transformation. Housing corporation Ymere has selected De Zwarte Hond to design an urban development plan that will add approximately 100 homes without compromising the area’s green and village-like character.

The neighborhood faces challenges in maintenance and renovation. While the area around Amsterdam Amstel station has evolved into a new urban center with high-rises, neighboring Amsteldorp has remained small-scale. The low-rise buildings form a stark contrast to the towering structures of the 21st-century city.

Participation and transparency are central to this process. In close collaboration with the municipality, we are developing a thoughtful strategy: avoiding large-scale demolition, enhancing the quality of life for current residents, and creating new opportunities for home seekers. By intelligently combining renovation with selective redevelopment, we are not only adding new homes but also preserving the quality and unique character of Amsteldorp for the future.