Republica is an innovative housing and mixed-use project located in Buiksloterham, Amsterdam North, designed by Marc Koehler Architects. Conceived as an “urban village” and a testbed for the city’s circular economy ambitions, Republica consists of six distinctive buildings arranged around open public squares and alleys. Each building has its own identity and function, incorporating residential units—to rent or buy—customizable Superlofts, short-stay apartments, a hotel, hospitality spaces, offices, and sports and wellness facilities.
The development integrates sustainable and circular principles at every level. The buildings use recycled and renewable materials and are designed for adaptability, allowing spaces to evolve with time to minimize future waste. Republica is part of the EU-funded ATELIER initiative and features a cutting-edge sustainable infrastructure: a smart energy microgrid, 1,500 m² of solar panels, aquifer thermal energy storage, and a 1.2 MWh communal battery enable the complex to operate as a Positive Energy District. Additional innovations include rainwater retention, green roofs, and a system to process organic waste into biogas and recover minerals.
A car-free, permeable “superblock” design prioritizes walkability, social safety, and a vibrant urban life. The project’s governance involves an active energy cooperative of both owners and tenants. Republica has received accolades for its architecture and sustainable approach, serving as a pioneering model for resilient and community-driven city living in Amsterdam.