Byzantium, Modern residential building in Amsterdam-West, Netherlands.
Byzantium is a residential building in Amsterdam-West distinguished by unusual geometric forms and vibrant material choices. Its facade and interior spaces integrate green marble, ruby-red granite, stainless steel, and wooden corridors, while rectangular, round, and triangular shapes define its overall composition.
Construction was completed in 1991, making it the inaugural residential project by Rem Koolhaas's Office for Metropolitan Architecture. This pioneering work established new design approaches that influenced contemporary housing architecture.
The name references Istanbul's historical Byzantine era while embodying a contemporary urban vision for Amsterdam. Residents and visitors encounter this historical echo within a building shaped by 20th-century architectural thinking.
The building sits between Stadhouderskade and Vondelpark, placing it near public transport options and green spaces. Note that this is a residential building without public access to its interiors, making it best viewed from the surrounding streets and nearby park.
The interior features the 'Constellations' light sculpture by Studio Stallinga, creating flowing visual patterns across multiple floors. This artistic installation adds an unexpected sensory dimension to the bold architectural design.
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