Human scale development
Taking advantage of its proximity to the station, Spoorkwartier is designed as an urban neighborhood that encourages the use of public transport. The design focuses on achieving a density that maintains a human scale and suits the character of the Rivierenbuurt. Buildings are composed of composite volumes with an "urban layer" that matches the height of the surrounding buildings, topped with upper floors placed with a set-back. The taller buildings are placed further away from the existing houses, ensuring existing inhabitants 'the right to sky'. This approach allows light into the streets, reduces the visual impact of taller buildings, and ensures a gradual transition in scale from the intimate residential zones to the bustling station area.

Balancing vibrancy with tranquility
The development aims to blend two atmospheres: vibrant and welcoming for visitors, yet tranquil and inclusive for residents. Various open spaces will provide varying levels of public access, including green community courtyards and rooftops for neighborhood use. The central plaza serves two purposes: a lower level for commuters and visitors, and an upper level as a neighborhood gathering place. Height differences throughout Spoorkwartier are thoughtfully integrated to ensure inclusivity, with gentle slopes that enhance accessibility. These slopes also become a playful design element, creating changing proportions and optical illusions as one explores the neighborhood, adding to Spoorkwartier's unique character.

Green public spaces and mobility infrastructure
Spoorkwartier's mobility infrastructure prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, creating high-quality green public spaces. Logistics for the music center and other amenities are carefully planned to respect this focus. Key ecological corridors are preserved by designating specific areas for limited human activity, supporting both biodiversity and climate resilience.

Water Management and Climate Adaptation
As the lowest point of the site is below sea level, significant attention is given to water management. The system aims to slow down and disperse water runoff as much as possible over time and space. Roofs are designed to collect and store rainwater, with overflows cascading from higher green spaces to lower ones. The lowest space, the station square, is designed like a 'sponge'. The layout of the streets and the green structure ensure that water ends up in the right place. New trees and compact public spaces provide a pleasant environment even on the hottest days.

Sustainable and circular development
Embracing circular and bio-based principles, Spoorkwartier prioritizes sustainable energy generation and material reuse to create a vibrant, inclusive and resilient station area that benefits both the community and the environment.