In the Knowledge District (Kenniskwartier), space has been created for a U-shaped construction block made up of five plots. On the largest plot, covering around 5,000 sq. m, The Pulse, a multifunctional complex featuring housing, offices and cultural and other amenities was realised in November 2024. The Pulse is set to be an attractive and vibrant addition to the city, not only from Monday to Friday, but also in the evenings and at weekends.
The Pulse is developed by VORM Ontwikkeling and EDGE. Sustainability is a key factor in terms of both the urban planning and the design by architects MVSA and VMX. In The Pulse, the complementary worlds of living and working take shape in two different towers of approximately 80 and 90 m in height, connected together by means of a low-rise section boasting an impressive city forest at a height of some 35 m.
Housing, offices and amenities
The Pulse features 151 mid-market rental properties and 49 private-sector rented homes, including ten garden lofts and nine penthouses. The mid-market homes are mostly located in the western tower, which has 21 floors. The eastern tower features 24 floors and 36,000 sq. m. of office accommodation. The ground floor and first floor of the central section and the towers will also boast a nine-screen cinema, various hospitality and catering outlets and a supermarket. Much of the ground floor will be accessible to the general public.
The Pulse is a completely self-sufficient and energy-neutral building. Power is generated by solar panels on the front and roof of the building. Flows of high-quality energy from one tower supply power to the other, ensuring no energy is wasted. The mobility plan is based on maximising the use of public transport, electric and shared cars, cycles and pedestrian traffic. There also is a car park with 125 parking spaces, all fitted with charging points. Of these, 45 to 65 spaces are reserved for shared electric cars.
Sustainable urban biotope
The Pulse is set to become a sustainable urban biotope. On the ground floor, the City of Amsterdam had created a park and a real city forest between the towers, complete with trees, shrubs and water storage has been landscaped. ‘Polder roofs’ and a special load-bearing structure will help create the right habitat. The rooftop garden (the city forest) lies slightly higher, with the façades as rock formations above the tree line. The Pulse will provide space for biodiversity. Green areas and water do not only create an attractive place to spend time, but also help contribute to a sustainable and rain-proof city.
Planning
Work started in the summer of 2021. Building works on The Pulse finished on 15 November 2024.
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