Solids IJburg

IJburg is one of Amsterdam's big new urban neighbourhoods extending over seven artificial islands with accommodation planned for 45,000 people. In autumn 2007 work began on the 'solids', a perimeter block development consisting of seven buildings, located at the entrance to Haveneiland, the largest of the islands. This scheme combines a very high building density - the specified floor area ratio of 6.4 is comparable to that for high-rise neighbourhoods in Asia - with a ground plan allowing for flexibility of use. The term 'solids' is intended to reflect the durability of the buildings as well as their functionality. That it also encompasses high-quality architecture is apparent from the impressive façades and the elegant foyers as well the careful selection and details of the materials.