
THIS.

THIS. is a new area for living and working that seamlessly integrates with, and fulfils the ambitions of the Buiksloterham Framework, drawn up by DELVA and the City of Amsterdam.
The added value of landscape design is not to present a landscape that looks natural, but to create the landscape in such a way that the people living in it will feel natural. – Steven Delva

The Hidden Garden
They looked at what the location has to offer. One of the most unique features is the spectacular views. THIS. asked for an open facade and a large roof terrace with an attractive public space. The roof terrace maximises the potential of the place and offers unparalleled views over the IJ river.


The Hidden Garden satisfies the need for nature in the middle of the city. – Sander van den Bosch
By alternating between multi-stemmed trees, shrubs, ferns and grasses, they create a play of light and shade. The undulating surface in the hidden garden provides a dynamic experience of the landscape, alternating between interesting sightlines and natural privacy. The inner garden is an exciting landscape for young children to discover and play in.


To unwind
THIS. shows what living and working by the water should look like. They made use of the dynamic view created by the constantly changing water landscape, with the traffic of ferries, ships and boats. Breathtaking skies and sunsets reinforce this. Openings between the office and residential buildings provide optimal orientation to the sun and ensure that they all have a fantastic view. The Hidden Garden creates space and light within the block. The greenery and winding paths offer a sense of intimacy and calm in the city.
THIS. is a place where you can connect with nature. – Rex van Beijsterveld
Small but beautiful ecosystem
With THIS. they are adding a new lively spot to Amsterdam-Noord. Unique because of its views and facilities such as The Hidden Garden. The increase in working from home as a result of Covid-19 led to a growing need for work environments that encourage interaction between people and fuel innovation. THIS. is a social hub that offers the perfect work-life balance while enjoying a panoramic view, surrounded by water and close to the city centre. They want to create a place to feel at home and at the same time strengthen the social and architectural connection with the environment.
Project details
Design: DELVA
Project Location: Amsterdam-Noord, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Typology: Urban garden
Design year: 2022
Collaborators: Powerhouse Company, Van Rossum Raadgevende Ingenieurs, DGMR, SmitsRinsma, Van Kessel, VolkerWessels, Van Losser Groep, Wessels Rijssen
Client: RED Company, DW Property

DELVA
DELVA believes in the power of nature as a means to tackle the spatial challenges of the 21st century. That’s why at DELVA, they turn the design process upside down and radically choose the landscape as their foundation. Area developments are used as a means to densify, green, and make sustainable. They seek a new and multifaceted meaning for the landscape, which through integral collaboration and daring thinking, becomes inextricably linked to buildings, technology, policy, and financial feasibility. They are convinced that only generous gestures from the landscape can bring closer to a world we all dream of. They create radical landscapes for people, nature, and the economy.