Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has completed Sluishuis, a "floating" residential community in Amsterdam's IJburg Steigereiland, designed to reinterpret the classic courtyard typology for life on water. The development comprises 442 zero-energy homes, alongside a water-quality programme and space for up to 30 houseboats.
© BIG | LinkedIn
The architectural design lifts the block toward the water, creating a large opening that channels water from the IJ Lake into the central courtyard, bringing daylight and views to the inner apartments. Gardens, conceived by BIG Landscape, feature local plant species and extend across roof terraces into integrated planters, establishing a vibrant green environment.
A promenade with public amenities winds around the building and connects to the water, forming an archipelago of islands accommodating houseboats, a sailing school, and suspended gardens. The project is designed to serve both residents and the wider community, blending recreational, residential, and ecological elements.
Sluishuis demonstrates an innovative approach to sustainable urban design, merging architectural ingenuity with environmental consideration, while offering scenic and functional spaces for summer enjoyment. Photographs of the project were captured by Harel Gilboa.
Source: LinkedIn.
