Revision as of 12:32, 14 March 2012

Site Analysis

The Big Picture: NDSM in the context of Amsterdam
The NDSM is approached by the public through the ferries from various points along the southern bank of Ij, and notably from right outside the Amsterdam Centraal railway station. Though the site is accessible by car, it could be a longer journey than taking the ferry across the Ij. The site looks empty and so quiet, with the occasional clang from a workshop or someone playing on the vast open fields. The Kunstad, skatepark and other functions are almost hidden and away from sight, and one would miss it unless they went looking for it. The spaciously set landscape is fast depleting with new proposals and master plans being brought up for a renewed NDSM. What does that mean for the creative industry who have claimed the site as their own?

==The Ecosystem==
The ecosystem of NDSM has evolved and adapted to the needs of its times. From being a ship-building yard to a creative informal core, it has come a long way. The end of the Ship-building company signalled a fresh start for NDSM, leading to influx of the creative arts, but it did not take long to realise the potential of NDSM regaining its commercial importance. Though the artist spaces at the Kunstad are growing, the development plan for the NDSM is quite a mixed bag, pointing towards chaos and confusion. The constant struggle between commerce and arts has led to mediators such as MTV and Redbull who find solace in a quiet place, close to Amsterdam Centraal and yet vibrant. However, they have not added artistic value to the site and remain aloof. The recognition of commercial importance brought in the HEMA headquarters and it's just a start. NDSM is going to be filled up. The space between the ship building area, the Kunstad and the MTV remain empty most of the year, showing a remarkable influx of people only for its famed festivals. The emptiness of the NDSM is what makes it what it is today.