The collection of buildings is part of the K-Midden development in the heart of the K-neighbourhood in the eastern part of the Bijlmer in Amsterdam. The originally allocated building envelope called for a closed urban block with high and low building volumes. The site, previously a parking garage, is situated between the 60-meter-tall Kouwenoord apartment block and the Koornhorst residential care centre. To the north is the busy Karspeldreef, while the south borders the green Kantershofpad and the low-rise neighbourhood of Laag Kouwenoord. A key aspect of the K-Midden development is enhancing the surrounding landscape and expanding the green structure.

A light, open and transparent composition
The three-building ensemble responds to the reinforced green structure. Residents can enjoy views of mature trees from the green courtyard garden, along with the newly planted tree-lined ’s-Gravendijkdreef and the lush Kantershofpad. Bridges and stairways connect the buildings, creating gathering points beneath the tree canopies in the courtyard. The community centre at the end of ’s-Gravendijkdreef, along with the entrance to the care centre and the general practice on Karspeldreef, imbue the buildings with a vibrant character and enliven the public space. Views of the green courtyard garden create a connection between the cluster and its surroundings, transforming the previously closed building envelope into a composition that is light, open and transparent.

A main load-bearing structure of cross-laminated timber
Both apartment buildings feature a main load-bearing structure of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for floors and walls, with timber frame façade elements. Designed according to Passive House principles, the buildings maximize the use of passive solar energy and internal heat. The thermal resistance values for the longitudinal wall, end wall, roof and floor are 6.5 m² W/K, 8.0 m² W/K, 8.9 m² K/W, and 6.5 m² K/W, respectively, ensuring minimal energy consumption. Each 7-m-wide dwelling includes a living room, a double bedroom, and a full-width balcony overlooking the tranquil green courtyard garden.