North Orleans
Prefabricated units are often used for temporary housing for students and expats, a growing target group on the frenzy housing market in Amsterdam. The problem is; it doesn’t build a city in the long run.
NorthOrleans is a highly experimental project where these conditions are paired with a more sustainable way of transforming an outdated, post-industrial area. This time it is here to stay and blend in with the brown colours of old brickwork warehouses, garages and steel structures of this once thriving industrial zone of shipyards and drydocks.
North Orleans is located on the Spijkerkade, right next to the office of SeARCH in Amsterdam-Noord. Today, architectural firms, design studios and other young companies have found their way into the redevelopment of the old factories and sheds in Noord and have created a new dynamic. With the development of direct connections between Noord and the centre of Amsterdam, such as a new metro line and a pedestrian bridge, this neighbourhood needs new homes. It is therefore the ideal location for this housing complex.
The individual studios are fully furnished, prefabricated concrete modules that are stacked on the construction site to 6 layers of 20 units, making construction much faster and more efficient. On the ground floor, the modules include a main entrance with concierge, mailboxes, a bicycle room, a laundry room, eateries and a common living room. The complex is built in a U-shape around a central courtyard, which is accessible to all residents.
The facade of CORTEN steel reveals its unique colour after rainy days and gives the building its industrial character.
With industrial warmth, imaginative architecture and a living experience that offers addictive home services – NorthOrleans is no ordinary place to lay your hat. After all, what young professional wants ordinary? They’d rather have their own food hall, indoor bike storage and Wi-Fi at their fingertips. Or a lush garden where residents can plug in and tune out, or a fully kitted out apartment with top-notch fittings.
NorthOrleans embraces the spirit of its namesake from the Deep South, where pioneers gathered with romantics, artists and jazz musicians, all with a zest for life. North Orleans reflects this culture of potential, attracting bright young minds from all over the world. Its façade makes a direct connection to the Deep South, with ornamental French Quarter style balustrades creating a conversation with its industrial surroundings.
Inside, the industrial theme continues with exposed concrete balanced with the homely warmth of wood flowing along the corridors. And with contemporary architecture and fittings throughout – it’s a world you’ll love to come home to.
North of Amsterdam? Absolutely, this is a neighbourhood with ambition. A plucky character with the city in its sights. It’s like the trailblazing younger sibling of Amsterdam with its own edgy style and authenticity. There’s a raw energy that flows around the area – a sense of possibility. No wonder so many cool hot spots have set up shop nearby. When your neighbours are Stork, the A’dam Tower and the Eye Film Museum, you know you’re in good company. So settler, are you a pioneer? Sure you are. Come and join the new frontier.
All the furniture has been hand-picked to make it easy for you to move it around to fit your particular living habits. A great space saving feature is the custom-made bed that actually folds away inside the sofa. So once you’re finished counting sheep, you can put it to sleep for the day.
You’ll also have your own private balcony with unique views across Amsterdam. And so, you can enjoy the sunset in comfort, there’s a designer chair and matching table for your company too.