mecanoo architecten: amsterdam university college

‘amsterdam university college’ by mecanoo, amsterdam, the netherlandsall images courtesy of mecanoo

amsterdam’s new science park contains a series of buildings that house an international knowledge center whose new addition includes the ‘amsterdam university college.’ the building, a joint initiative of the university of amsterdam and VU university amsterdam, is home to the liberal arts and sciences program and is based on the ‘cross fertilization of ideas and talent.’ located next to the historical anna hoeve farmhouse marking theentrance to the science park grounds, the new structure designed by dutch practice mecanoo mirrors the feel of it’s neighbor with a more sculptural and technological feel. the irregular angular green roof contrasts vividly with the bright orange metal cladding. the living canopy provides a naturalinsulation and collects water. it also houses the more private functions, such as quiet study areas and library. three voids penetrate the interior program where light is allowed to evenly illuminate all spaces, and offer large open areas for students and teachers alike to share thoughts and ideas. the rest of the program includes classrooms, a restaurant, common space, project rooms, conference halls, and workstations. the thick concrete elements andplentiful windows possess a great potential for heat storage through thermal mass which helps passively heat the interior while light sensors minimize the energy use in unoccupied rooms. the combination of sustainable efforts make the construct an example in green

common space

floating stairs connect several functions over various floors

seating areas to accommodate groups of various sizes

floor plane / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2

floor plan / level 3

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concept diagram

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project info:

program: university building of 5,800 m² with classrooms, library, restaurant, common room (living room), project rooms, conference rooms, workstationsclient:university of  amsterdamdesign: 2008-2010realization: 2010-2012structural engineer: abt bv, delftmep engineer: ingenieursburo linssen b.v., amsterdamacoustics consultant: dgmr, arnhemcost consultant: basalt bouwadvies bv, nieuwegeinproject management: arohnsohn advising engineers, rotterdambuilding cost: €9.000.000