The Jan Vet site, in the Amsterdam district De Baarsjes, lies on the boundary of a small-scale development whose layout reflects former drainage channels and the robust belt of 1920-1940 housing. Characteristic ‘artisan’s cottages’ and sturdy blocks of flats with Amsterdam School traits are sited around a public space with play facilities. The sculptural blocks with spacious apartments, averaging 120 m2 floor space each, are richly detailed and ornamented.
A different world presents itself in the attached one-family houses along the adjoining Slatuinenweg, which have timber-frame construction. The rear facade towards the plaza has a large overhang, reminiscent of Toraja houses of Indonesia. This imposing design choice creates a sheltered intermediate zone, half interior and half exterior.
