Kalvertoren shopping centre, Amsterdam

By constructing a large shopping centre at this historic, city centre location, Amsterdam wanted to face the competition from more easily accessible shops. The design achieves a fine balance between renewal and commerce on the one hand, and history and culture on the other. The complex with shops, cafés and restaurants and apartments was carefully inserted into the existing structure and highlights the surviving historical elements, such as the old gateway to the Heiligeweg. The shops, which are spread over three levels, are reached via three internal streets that converge in an atrium. This atrium also provides access to the tower, which not only offers a wonderful view of the surroundings but also functions as a landmark for the city quarter.