Underwater parking garage for bicycles helps wildlife and pedestrians

Cycling is extremely popular in the Netherlands where there are more bikes than people. This is one reason why bicycle parking is at a premium and the country is in the process of building additional parking garages for bikes. One of the newest, in Amsterdam, will be located underwater, providing a haven for aquatic life and cyclists.

Designed by architecture firm VenhoevenCS architecture+urbanism, the parking garage will be part of a semi-floating structure that was designed to protect the quay behind Amsterdam Central Station. From the entrance, cyclists are guided downwards in a flowing movement that encourages calmness and relaxation. Spacious stairwells with large glass surfaces provide a view of the parking facility from the street.

The parking garage benefits the aquatic life of the area with porous concrete that helps plants and mussels stick to the walls, while coconut mats help purify the water and mesh baskets shelter the fish. The space has also been designed to keep energy consumption low while generous daylight, good visibility and a central operator provide a feeling of security.

Springwise