Alligator-Inspired Mixed-Use Development for Amsterdam

The Albino Alligator is a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/2010/09/30/enotas-lotus-towers-are-a-mixed-use-residential-eco-development/" target="_blank">mixed-use project</a> for North Amsterdam that, oddly enough, resembles the shape of an alligator. Rotterdam-based <a href="http://www.maxwan.com/" target="_blank">Maxwan</a> architects designed each branch of the office to house a different part of the building's program, which resulted in an alligator-shaped building. White materials are used extensively throughout the project to make the development bright, reduce heat gain, and reflect light up into the living and working spaces. Attention to the surrounding environment, rainwater infiltration, and increased biodiversity round off the project's green design strategies.

The Albino Alligator is a mixed-use project designed to help regenerate the Buiksloterham region in Amsterdam North.

The project is called the Albino Alligator because it is mostly white and it resembles the shape of an alligator.

The project includes a public mixed-use building, a row of town homes, a residential tower, an office tower, and a gym.

White is the dominant color used throughout the project, due to the project's use of concrete, glass and metal.

This "white-scape" benefits the project by reducing heat gain on the building, reflecting daylight into the living and working spaces and keeping the surrounding landscape cool.

The Albino Alligator proposed a mix of programs for the Amsterdam North project, and each building of the project is determined by its programmatic needs.

One tower offers 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, while the other tower provides live/work lofts.

The fitness club located at the end of the building offers panoramic views of the entire city and a swimming pool.

The project is located on the banks of the river and also includes a public park and plaza.

The project is bordered on one side by a busy road and the other by a trail for biking and recreation.

The form of the building evolved through the design process based on the programmatic needs for each of the building typologies.

The surrounding landscape is also white, and it works to keep the micro climate around the building cool by not absorbing heat.

The landscaping includes small ponds and also works to infiltrate stormwater to avoid rapid runoff.