Mixed-Use Residential Complex Adds Social Sustainability to Urban Ecosystem in Amsterdam

The first residents have moved into AMST, a landmark mixed-use residential complex set to revolutionize urban living in Amsterdam (Netherlands). Located opposite the Amstel station — a transport hub with train, metro and bus links — the ambitious project boasts an array of shared facilities and diverse range of 25 affordable housing types, enhancing social sustainability and providing a livable neighborhood in the heart of the city.

Catering to the housing needs of one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, AMST has 252 dwellings — 80% are available as medium-rent homes and social housing — ensuring that individuals from all walks of life can find their place in the city. The complex offers a wide range of housing types, including studios, family apartments, live-work spaces and multi-generational apartments and townhouses, all within a flexible and adaptable structure.

The unique façade of AMST creates a uniform appearance that belies the mix of housing typologies. Comprising an all-sided slender concrete frame with manually movable wooden shutters, the façades not only allow residents to control sunlight, but also contribute to soundproofing. The color of the concrete frames harmoniously echoes that of the adjacent station building, enhancing the overall urban aesthetic.

In addition, AMST seamlessly integrates the residential and commercial, bridging the gap between modern living and city life. Accessible at street level, residents can enjoy easy access to a café, supermarket, small-scale retail, bicycle storage, workspaces and studios, all within walking distance of the station. It also incorporates a collective “living room” for residents, an after-school homework center and a cultural hub, fostering a strong sense of community within the development.

Sustainability lies at the core of AMST’s design and construction. The complex features prefabricated timber-frame construction for the apartments and studios, contributing to higher construction quality, reduced waste and shorter construction times. This approach also minimized disruption during the building process, ensuring a more pleasant experience for residents in the area.

At its height, AMST offers two collective outdoor spaces in the form of roof decks, inspired by courtyard living. These decks serve as communal areas, encouraging social interaction and community engagement. Residents can enjoy lush roof gardens and shaded areas under pergolas with solar panels, with designated spaces for gardening and relaxation. With clever planting and water features, these green areas provide a calm retreat set amidst the urban environment, enriching the overall living experience by providing an oasis in a busy metropolis.

Further, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development, AMST is water neutral. The complex incorporates a circular system for rainwater collection, retention and reuse. Rainwater is utilized in the roof gardens, communal areas and water features, boosting the efficiency of solar panels and enhancing biodiversity in the communal gardens. This conscious approach not only reduces water waste, but also raises residents’ awareness of responsible water usage.

The project team includes general contractor Heddes Bouw & Ontwikkeling/Netherlands and architect VenhoevenCS.

Photos: VenhoevenCS, Proloog (render)