Appointment letter World Fashion Centre - An important milestone for Amsterdam
During the PROVADA, the City of Amsterdam and MRP, developer and owner of the World Fashion Centre (WFC Amsterdam), signed an agreement letter for the renewal of WFC Amsterdam and its immediate surroundings. With this ambitious plan, the WFC is transforming into a future-proof and healthy new city district where living, working, doing business and meeting come together. The development includes:
- New social rental, medium-priced rental and private sector housing
- Social facilities
- Space for fashion, entrepreneurs and offices
- Supporting catering and lively meeting places
The surroundings of the WFC have been an important part of the transformation of Amsterdam Nieuw-West for several years. Where offices used to determine the streetscape, an attractive, mixed neighbourhood with space for living, working and facilities is gradually emerging.
From four to six towersThe WFC is being expanded and renewed. The number of towers will go from four to six. Towers 1 and 2, designed by architect Hugh Maaskant and with a monumental value, will be given a few extra layers and will be preserved as much as possible. Tower 4 will be renovated and raised. In addition, two new towers will be added: one between towers 1 and 2, and one on the south side.
A mix of functions
The renovated WFC will be more than a place for fashion, offices and events. The area will have a mix of functions that combine living, working and recreation. The semi-public roof park plays an important role in this and makes the area more accessible and attractive for residents, entrepreneurs and visitors.
Next steps in the developmentThe agreement letter forms the basis for the further elaboration of the plans. The redevelopment of the WFC offers opportunities for a sustainable, inclusive and healthy urban environment, with space for living, working and staying.
Steven van Weijnenberg, alderman of the municipality of Amsterdam: "This is a big step towards the new development and expansion of the World Fashion Centre. In addition to extra space for entrepreneurs, 261 homes will be added, 156 social rental homes, 26 medium-priced rental homes and 79 apartments in the free sector. Really a very nice result for the neighborhood and I hope that in addition to being a nice place to work, it will also be a nice place to live."
Bart Meijer, CEO and owner of MRP: "With the signing of this letter of agreement, we are taking an important step in the further development of the WFC and the surrounding area. The WFC has been an iconic landmark in Amsterdam for decades and forms the connection between the historic city center and Amsterdam Nieuw-West. With respect for the architectural and monumental value of the building, we are working on a future-proof urban environment where living, working and meeting come together. In this way, we not only strengthen the WFC itself, but we also add lasting value to the city and to the entrance to Amsterdam Nieuw-West."
