The Podium residential building is a light and optimistic structure along the central axis of Schipluidenlaan in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. LEVS architects designed 147 mid-range rental apartments here for De Nijs and SAREF. The design is characterized by strong horizontal lines, light ceramic materials, and large windows that flood all the apartments with daylight. The building was completed at the end of August.
The design draws inspiration from the neighboring former Calvijn College, known for its clean horizontal lines and prominently curved auditorium—a 1960s classic by Ben Ingwersen. The design for Podium plays with light, reflection, and texture throughout. With washed gravel concrete, glazed elements, and light-yellow bricks arranged in a rhythmic pattern, the facade exudes both optimism and solidity. Podium is a building with an unmistakable character that can be appreciated from every angle.
On all sides, the building connects with the outside world. The through-apartments on the north and east sides allow for living on both ends, with daylight streaming from front to back. Along the west side, loggias create a connection between the living rooms and the terraces. The living rooms on the ground floor are slightly elevated above the street, subtly marking the transition from private to public space.
The plan is aimed at young professionals in the mid-range rental market, who will frequently use bicycles and public transport. From every corner, attractive entrances with glass or refined fencing provide access to the bicycle storage, which is semi-submerged around the central courtyard. The storage area is spacious and includes room for cargo bikes. Natural daylight filters into this space from the courtyard. Between the surrounding bike storage, a rich landscape design is possible, as trees and plants can grow directly in the soil.
On the corner near the auditorium, space was reserved for a facade artwork at the initiative of LEVS. Thanks to the client's enthusiasm, it took shape in a special way. The artwork was created through a collaboration between the Teenage Curators of art center de Appel, artist Narges Mohammadi, and spoken word artist Zeinab El Bouni. It reflects the memories of young people from their high school years and their experiences growing up in Nieuw-West. The artwork will be officially unveiled in the presence of all involved on Saturday, October 12th.