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'amsterdam university college' by mecanoo, amsterdam, the netherlands
all 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 the
entrance 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 natural
insulation 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 and
plentiful 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, workstations
client:university of amsterdam
design: 2008-2010
realization: 2010-2012
structural engineer: abt bv, delft
mep engineer: ingenieursburo linssen b.v., amsterdam
acoustics consultant: dgmr, arnhem
cost consultant: basalt bouwadvies bv, nieuwegein
project management: arohnsohn advising engineers, rotterdam
building cost: €9.000.000
the moooi fixtures look far better in the rendering than in reality