Freebooter | GG-loop

Zeeburgereiland is a triangular artificial land mass next to the city center of Amsterdam. More than 100 years ago, Zeeburgereiland was underwater and the body of water itself served as a thoroughfare for Dutch Navy ships. This man-made island has since become the site of a very different kind of ship: Freebooter.

A celebration of exquisite craftsmanship in contemporary design, the beautifully bespoke two-apartment Freebooter block harmonises form and function across a meticulously crafted layout. Boasting an eye-catching parametric louvred exterior which is a focal point for the neighbourhood, this block opens into a compact and well-designed interior layout revealing combinations of window features, timber interiors and layered finishes. The picturesque Zeeburgereiland is the perfect backdrop for family living and entertaining, with open-planned organic curves walking through to comfortable living spaces, fostering a sense of wellbeing and connection to nature.

The 2 duplexes have a main core containing the vital functions related to nourishment (kitchen) and personal care (bathroom and toilets). Around it the resting area (master bedroom and single bedroom, studio) and the “living” area (living room and dining room) evolve fluidly. The open plan offers maximum flexibility. The living room merges with the dining room, the studio and the double height space. This loop continues through the stairs connecting to the resting area (master bedroom, single bedroom and studio) and the large terrace. As for apartment 1, the view towards the river together with privacy and perfect light conditions are guaranteed over the whole day in every room. The system of balconies and terraces creates continuity between inner spaces and outer spaces, enlarging the rooms and connecting them also from outside.
 
"Freebooter was born out of the main elements which characterize the area. It used to be a place where ships were constantly present. This is why the decision was made to use the elements related to navigation and interpret them according to a vision: the wooden structure typical of the sailing ships and traditional Dutch architecture inspired the construction technology and feeling of the interiors; the openness of the floor plan, the changes in height according to the function of the room follows basic principle of ship engineering; the transparency of the façades, the balconies and terraces, create a feeling of standing on a ship’s deck, and still preserving privacy and comfort. The fluidity of the water that carries the ship and the wind that blows into its veils inspired both the floor plan, the interiors and the pattern of shading structure. With this building the design brings back the historic memories of the area and gives the new inhabitants the feeling of belonging to it since centuries ago."

Giacomo Garziano