Stedenwijk Noord en kinderboerderij Heerenveenpad

Stedenwijk Noord, completed in 1979, was in urgent need of a facelift in 2008. Sagging, overdue maintenance and poor building quality had caused the neighbourhood to deteriorate both socially and aesthetically. The Amsterdam School-style renovation brought relief to residents. The old grey brick was replaced with narrow red bricks with deep joints, and cavity walls were widened for better insulation. Window frames were given more variety and insulated glass. Refinement and variation in brickwork and roof tiles gave the neighbourhood more prestige, identity and landmarks, without losing its original character. Sandstone reliefs by Annet van der Kamp depict the features of the provinces after which the blocks are named. Green spaces were also improved. A petting zoo, designed by Bas ten Brinke of 70F Architecture, appeared in nearby Den Uylpark. This austere but perfectly executed building in wood and acrylic sheet is a showpiece in the neighbourhood. The shutters open in the morning; at dawn and dusk they close automatically. The sleek exterior form and consistent sobriety in the use of materials are a valuable asset to the neighbourhood.