De Aker , at the edge of Amsterdam, was a horticultural area for farmers who had had to relocate when the Western Extension Plan was realized. Until urbanization also reached this last frontier in the Eighties.

The redevelopment approach here is quite different from the way large residential areas were built just after the war. Instead of covering the previous agricultural landscape with a layer of sand and ignoring the existing subdivisions and vegetation, new ground is only added where it is needed for constructing housing and streets. Consequently, distinctly different environments are created.

Housing construction also benefits from this more subtle strategy. The 31 private homes are situated at the edge of the drainage canal between polders. Against the dike. The design takes advantage of the resulting difference in ground levels by positioning the kitchen above a carport at street level. The living room, one and a half storeys high, enjoys a splendid view of the canal and the landscape beyond. A bay window over two floors keeps an eye on the street in front.

Editorials featuring Housing