In Amsterdam, Netherlands, developers are transforming the former Bijlmerbajes Prison into an integrated urban district with residential units and sustainable public spaces. Covering 7.5 hectares and 135,000 square meters of built area, the project integrates seamlessly into its urban surroundings while preserving and repurposing key elements of the original prison structure. This significant urban redevelopment project aims to rejuvenate the area.
Historical Background of Bijlmerbajes Prison
Opened in 1978, Bijlmerbajes was a six-tower prison designed to provide inmates with some level of freedom to encourage rehabilitation. The prison remained operational until 2016, when the Dutch government decided to close it and sell the site for redevelopment. Construction on the urban redevelopment project for the new district began in 2017.
Redevelopment Plan
The project is being designed by OMA in collaboration with FABRICations and other architectural firms. The redevelopment plan aims to transform the prison into a sustainable neighborhood that integrates residential and public spaces while retaining parts of the original structure, including the administrative building, one of the towers, and the surrounding walls. This urban redevelopment project is focused on creating harmony between the old and the new.
Key Features of the Project
- 1,350 residential units, with 30% allocated for social housing. The urban redevelopment project aims to address social housing needs.
- Conversion of a remaining prison tower into a vertical park with a viewing platform.
- New pedestrian and cycling paths to connect the district with its surroundings.
- Reuse of 98% of demolished materials, including concrete, prison bars, and doors. Recycling materials is a key part of the urban redevelopment project.
Residential Buildings
1- The Jay
- Located on a site originally planned for a seventh prison tower that was never built.
- Comprises 17 floors and 135 apartments as part of the urban redevelopment project.
- Incorporates architectural elements reminiscent of the prison, such as a grid of square windows resembling prison bars.
2- The Martin
- Designed as four interlocking cubes, creating terraces and balconies. This creative urban redevelopment project feature ensures ample outdoor space.
- Offers apartments ranging from 50 to 140 square meters.
- Features a central atrium spanning five floors and rooftop terraces on the 6th and 9th floors.
Sustainability and Recycling
The redevelopment embraces sustainability and circular economy principles, with 98% of materials from the demolished prison reused in the new buildings. Key sustainability features include:
- Underground heat and cold storage systems to reduce energy consumption. These innovative solutions are integral to the urban redevelopment project.
- Solar panels for renewable energy generation.
- Organic waste management systems to convert waste into compost.
Project Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Total Area | 7.5 hectares |
| Total Built Area | 135,000 square meters |
| Prison Operation Period | 1978 – 2016 |
| Redevelopment Start Year | 2017 |
| Number of Residential Units | 1,350 |
| Social Housing Percentage | 30% |
| Preserved Elements | One tower, administrative building, surrounding walls |
| Material Reuse | 98% of the demolished prison materials |
| Sustainability Features | Energy storage, solar panels, material recycling |
Conclusion
The Bijlmerbajes transformation serves as a model for adaptive reuse of existing infrastructure in a way that promotes sustainable urban development through a comprehensive urban redevelopment project. By integrating modern architecture with the historical character of the site, the project aims to create a balanced urban environment that fosters residential living, green spaces, and environmental sustainability.
