The New Bay Village

Squatter initiative grows into housing cooperative with 11 rental homes, theater and workspaces

From squat to residential building with plenty of room for creativity and art
On the site where the prison warden's villa once stood, the project the new Bajesdorp has been realized. The building is an initiative of a residents' group that emerged from the squatters of the former jailers' houses. It is a mixed building with 11 housing units, theater cafe and studios. The building stands in an inspiring living environment on a green square with a permaculture garden and nature garden.

Living
Workshops with future residents determined the program: eleven independent living units/lofts, nine of which are social rental and two of which are medium rental. With a free height of 4.5 meters, the spaces offer optimal design possibilities. On the first floor are a workshop, dance studio, foyer/canteen and a Blackbox for performances and try-outs. In addition to the residences, the floors also contain office and work spaces and meeting areas. The mixed program promotes maximum interaction.

Architecture
Designed by studio seven architects, the building has a playful facade with staggered openings and is clad in wood. Facade screens provide quiet in an area with complex noise conditions. The complex meets BENG requirements and has an MPG of 0.7. Rainwater is infiltrated, there are 72 solar panels and a 40 kWh battery storage. Recycled concrete and limestone are some examples of sustainable choices. A climbing plant system promote flora and fauna on the facade. The nature garden will be phased within the existing rows of trees. Residents decorate the interior spaces themselves with recycled materials and clay stucco walls.

Bay Area
Bajeskwartier is a new, sustainable urban district in Amsterdam East, built on the site of the former Bijlmer prison. The district uniquely combines architecture, greenery and circularity. Bajeskwartier will contain approximately 1,350 homes, schools, restaurants, offices and lots of public space.