marlies rohmer: waterdwellings IJburg

‘waterdwellings IJburg’ by marlies rohmer images courtesy of marlies rohmer

dutch architecture studio, marlies rhomer has completed ‘waterdwellings’, a densely populated residential community which floats upon the IJburg between zeeburgereiland and haveneiland in amsterdam, the netherlands.

consciously structured around a grid of long docks, the dwellings participate in a simple play of continuously varying views. arbitrary distances separate each unit which change in height and orientation, providing the triangular plot of homes with the perception of a seemingly detached and informal layout.

each home captures a unique view based on its orientation

connected by a network of banks, docks and water, the compact community – with a density of 60 homes per hectare – strives to achieve a sense of laxity and individuality despite its contrived approach. surrounded by water, islands and a harbour, the two neighborhoods look to establish a unique relationship with both the lake and the surrounding context.

each family can park their boat next to their home

each home, available in a range of floor plans and sizes, consists of three freely laid out storeys, the lowest of which is partially submerged underwater. open and partially enclosed terraces occupy large amounts of space, closely connecting interior and exterior living spaces. boardwalks that surround each dwelling further emphasize this idea, putting the homeowner in contact with the water at all times.

the customizable homes vary in height, size and configuration

glazed and brightly colored plastic panels clamp onto a lightweight steel frame, allowing the user to dictate for the most part, the design including where windows are placed. supported by a series of immersed concrete anchors, the floating units can be adapted and customized through extensions – sunrooms, floating verandas and awnings – that easily attach to the simple skeleton frame.

residents can swim in the water during the summer and ice skate on it in the winter