Text description of the architects. Cruquius Island, an artificial peninsula in the eastern docklands of Amsterdam, has been transformed from a historic industrial area into a vibrant residential district characterized by its unique waterfront location. Originally built between 1875 and 1925 to expand the port of Amsterdam, the area evolved from a livestock market to an industrial center and now a vibrant urban enclave. This renovation is an example of how architecture, urbanism and landscape planning can adapt historic sites to contemporary needs. While reference is made to the island's industrial heritage, the focus is on transformation into a modern living environment.
The former industrial area, which once housed warehouses and factories, has given way to a diverse mix of housing and public spaces. A fan-shaped arrangement of 14 buildings creates a neighborhood of varying sizes, transitioning from large, elongated volumes reminiscent of historic industrial architecture to smaller, three-story semi-detached houses. This design reflects a balance between density and intimacy, with each home featuring outdoor spaces such as balconies, gardens or terraces. Each residence offers water views, highlighting the project's seamless integration with its waterfront location.
The city plan emphasizes a hierarchy of scales and spaces. From Cruquiusweg, sightlines extend directly to the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal, reinforcing a strong visual connection to the water. Large ships ply this busy waterway while pedestrians enjoy the tranquility of the Quay – a busy, car-free promenade lined with ground floor apartments, commercial spaces and recreational areas. The juxtaposition of these contrasting elements gives the neighborhood vibrancy and promotes a sense of place that is both intimate and expansive.
Landscaping plays a central role in the project, with paths, semi-public gardens and communal green spaces integrated into the urban fabric. Designed with irregular edges that evoke an organic aesthetic, these paths guide movement through the site while creating inviting places to linger. Taken together, these elements enhance the spatial quality of the area, providing residents with spaces to relax, socialize and enjoy a quiet, pedestrian-friendly environment.
Sustainability underpins the project’s identity. Parametric design principles were used to optimize sunlight access for homes and community spaces. Green roofs, solar panels and energy efficient systems minimize the ecological footprint, while semi-mature trees and extensive landscaping improve biodiversity and residents' quality of life. Ground floor spaces feature active, interactive facades that connect residential and communal uses to encourage engagement. Secure bicycle parking spaces and barrier-free common areas also promote sustainable, urban living.
By completely transforming former brownfield sites on this site, this residential project preserves and celebrates local character while introducing modern living amenities that ensure quality of life and comfort. The playfully meandering landscaping and the porosity it imparts to the spaces between buildings honor the area's past while aligning it with the future. The result is a neighborhood within a neighborhood that exemplifies how historic preservation and innovation in spatial design can harmonize to create desirable new urban living space.
Cruquius Island is therefore setting the standard for waterfront redevelopment, transforming a former industrial area into a green, thriving community. By combining heritage, nature and modern city life, the project underlines KCAP's commitment to sustainable redevelopment – and is a model for future dense urban regeneration initiatives.
