Borneo Sporenburg, Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, Borneo Sporenburg is a development which was created in the years 1993-1997. About sixty architects worked on the project, guided by a master plan developed by the firm West 8. The plan demanded a 30%-50% void in each of the individual homes, where residents could create small gardens, or whatever they wanted. The roads are constructed as 'woonerfs' where the road is shared by pedestrian, cyclist, and autos. It is in the north-east part of Amsterdam, reachable by tram. An incredibly windy place, I strolled around for an afternoon.



Spaces at the tip of one of the quays were left, seemingly forgotten. It looks as though an attempt was made at collective open space, but unsuccessful. It is now an interesting space with regards to plants, however not really used at all.


There are two bridges connecting the neighbourhoods. The first, shown here, is designed in a way to permit sail boats to pass underneath. The other is much more flat, to allow for cyclists to cross. It is quite an experience going over it, at least it was for me, during such high winds. Plus its red, and has these lights, see below.



People have colonised the sidewalks through plants, in different manners, and different intensities.



Eurasian coot (Fulica atra)





The quays have been colonised by the 'Armada of Amsterdam' (people who live on their boats). Its quite beautiful, people have created small gardens here and there, on their boats or leading up to land. Even with very little or no space, people manage to make gardens.