Jonas Amsterdam

Many urban developments lack a connection with nature, focusing more on infrastructure rather than addressing climate challenges. This leads to ecological degradation, loss of biodiversity, inefficient use of resources, and displaced residents. Communal spaces, which are essential for fostering interactions and social cohesion, are often overlooked. In response, Jonas was designed in the heart of the Amsterdam district IJburg. More than just a building to live in, it embodies a holistic approach that integrates community, commercial spaces, culture, and ecology into the public realm. Jonas addresses the shortcomings of traditional urban design by emphasizing sustainability and ecological functionality. By doing so, the project was awarded the highest sustainability certification: BREEAM Outstanding.   JONAS: LIVING IN A NATURE INCLUSIVE LANDSCAPE Naming the building Jonas evokes the imagery of a place for reflection and growth, where people can find respite from the bustling urban life into a “big body”, akin to Jonah's narrative within the belly of the Whale. The project unfolds into four distinct landscape-driven realms: the Rock, the Island, the Forest, and the Beach- each designed to foster a unique interaction between residents and their environment.   The three-dimensional Rock, photo by Stijn Poelstra   The Rock is a stereotomic landscape adorning the square in front of the building. This square is framed by a wooden sculpture, ingeniously integrating the entrance to the parking garage. Sculptural terraces and wooden decks extend to form a grandstand, seamlessly transitioning into a platform that stretches towards the water. It serves as the heart of the neighbourhood, hosting events and gatherings. On summer days, Jonas' interior and exterior merge when the large glass fronts open up, connecting with the environment.  The Island and Quay, photo by Stijn Poelstra   The Quay was transformed into a dynamic bank landscape, teeming with diverse vegetation along the border between land and water. Reed beds, interspersed with jetties along the building, gradually transition into grassy banks adorned with sandy beaches near the square, with an enchanting Island nestled within the canal. To traverse this natural wonderland, stepping stones and a towing ferry offer an adventurous route across the water. Wooden objects scattered throughout the greenery serve as inviting natural play elements, adding an extra layer of excitement and exploration. The building's patio is an intimate retreat, evoking a shaded Forest. Large trees, ferns and moss, paved paths and wooden benches create the atmosphere. Where the Forest patio opens up, the flagstones slope down to the water, in a playful staircase with seating elements.   The forest Patio, photo by Stijn Poelstra   Jonas features a rooftop Beach with a central glass watercourse that stretches across the entire atrium. It is surrounded by a dune landscape with grass and swaying pine trees. Terraces around the dune are separated by wooden boxes with wild roses. The water flows to a small square, adjacent to a community kitchen. The story of Jonah and the Whale is depicted in the pavement with Portuguese granite stones. At the heart of it all, a central barbecue area brings the square to life, evoking a perpetual holiday ambiance atop the building.   The rooftop beach and glass watercourse above the Canyon, photo by Emile Hoens   The Canyon stands as the most breathtaking space, connecting various landscape elements through its monumental atrium. Illuminated by the reflection of water and sunlight streaming through the central waterway on the roof, it exudes an awe-inspiring ambiance. At ground level, it serves as the nexus, linking the Rock and the Forest. A winding mountain path, weaving through each floor of the Canyon, provides a connection from The Beach to the ground level, enhancing the sense of cohesion and exploration throughout the space.  The Canyon, photo by Sebastian van Damme    NATURE BASED-SOLUTIONS AND BIODIVERSITY To address today's critical challenges, Jonas incorporates advanced Nature-Based Solutions. Native vegetation along the banks and underwater habitats, through the installation of artificial substrates for mussel communities and the accumulation of stones, support amphibians fish species. Vegetation on roofs and facades improves thermal insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and create habitats for insects, birds and bats. Nesting sites and refuges further enhance the presence of local species, while mixtures of native herbs and reeds strengthen riverine and coastal ecosystems. Water management is optimized through rainwater collection and reuse systems and the use of surface water thermal energy for heating and cooling, thus increasing the building's energy efficiency. These measures demonstrate an innovative and integrated approach to urban design through its intelligent integration of ecological habitats and energy-efficient design. Some of the most prominent Nature Based Solution that Jonas houses are: Jonas’s development contributes positively to the environment, aligning with contemporary ecological standards and pioneering new strategies for future developments. It is not merely a building but a landmark with a landscape, where ecology functionality meets urban living.