The council of Zaanstad has the ambition to build 2,000 to 2,500 houses in the Kogerveldwijk in the city of Zaandam. One of the plans is to transform the outdated industrial estate in the Boerejonkerbuurt into a new residential area. In this neighbourhood, the former location of a school will be redeveloped by Blauwhoed to build some 159 housesfor the social segment, mid-priced rental and free sector housing. In addition, the connection to the surrounding area will be improved. Sustainability and social safety were the starting points for the development of the Timbr plan.

The diverse plan containing studios, apartments with two or three bedrooms and maisonettes appeals to a broad target group. It responds to the need for affordable housing in Zaanstad and the surrounding area. We are creating a pleasant new place to live for young first-time buyers as well as seniors. There will also be areas, like a communal garden, where people can meet. The plinth has room for commercial or social activities, to bring liveliness.

The complex is a modular residential building. This means that the house modules are made in a factory and only have to be assembled at the building site. For this, we use Ursem’s IDB system. The modular system has several advantages, such as a shorter building time at the construction site, less nitrogen emissions and less inconvenience for people in the area.

We want to create a sustainable and healthy living environment. This is an important ambition of ours in the development of Timbr. The houses will be build modular and out of wood as much as possible. This will create a flexible and sustainable building. The wooden finish of the frames and walkways enhances this even more. The houses are situated around a big garden and will face this garden or the river Zaan. Furthermore, the trees, shrubs and winding paths encourage residents to exercise and relax in the lush public space. The possibilities for a durable mobility concept to enhance accessibility are also being researched.