Project

De Makerij is a mixed-use, circular urban block in Buiksloterham, Amsterdam, designed as a future-proof living and working environment for makers and doers. Situated on plots 19A, B and C, the project forms a new productive neighbourhood where housing, workspaces and collective facilities are tightly interwoven.

The design is rooted in adaptability and long-term value. Flexible floor plans, demountable construction and generous structural dimensions allow the buildings to evolve over time, accommodating changing user needs and future functions. By embracing open building principles and reversible detailing, De Makerij remains resilient across generations.

A central element of the plan is the Connectivator: a spatial backbone that both connects and separates. It enables interaction between residents, makers and visitors, while carefully balancing liveliness with privacy and calm. This layered organisation supports social cohesion and creates a rich gradient from public to private space.

Circularity and sustainability are integral to the architectural and landscape concept. Reused and biobased materials, visible energy systems and an integrated green structure form a new urban ecosystem. Roofs, façades and courtyards contribute to biodiversity, water retention and climate adaptation, while shared mobility and collective facilities encourage sustainable behaviour.

De Makerij is developed as an inclusive neighbourhood with a diverse mix of housing typologies, from social rental to owner-occupied homes, combined with productive spaces, community facilities and active ground floors along the water. Through close collaboration between designers, developers, residents and local stakeholders, the project demonstrates how living and working can reinforce one another in a dense, circular city.

De Makerij positions itself as a tangible manifesto for sustainable urban development: a place where making, living and sharing come together in a productive and socially strong environment.

Client

Ballast Nedam Development

Program

Mixed-use development including housing (social rental, mid-range rental and owner-occupied), productive workspaces, community facilities, offices, horeca and shared outdoor spaces

Stages

Concept design
Urban design
Architectural design

Team

MLA+, ANA Architecten
Urban design & landscape: Flux Landscape Architects
Development: Ballast Nedam Development
Sustainability & materials: W/E Adviseurs, Superuse Studios
Participation: Smarticipatie
Productive spaces: Linkeroever
Structural engineering: Van Rossum
Energy concept: Buro Loo
Concept development: Erik Go, Derny