Architect：Benthem Crouwel Architects

Location：Kuiperbergweg 19, 1102 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands

Project Year：2021

Category：Offices

Equinix Datacenter AM7, at the Business Park Amstel III in Amsterdam, is the digital gateway to Europe. Since the beginning of this century, AM7, comprising of numerous networks, clouds and service providers, has been one of the most important leading digital hubs in the Netherlands. Royal HaskoningDHV developed the extension of the AM7 site in two phases in collaboration with Benthem Crouwel Architects. After the realization of the first phase: the 6MW data center expansion in 2018, the second phase and the Front of House (entrance) were completed in May 2021. To enable the required growth, Benthem Crouwel Architects, together with Royal HaskoningDHV, developed a master plan for the entire AM7 site, allowing the expansion to be realized adjacent to the existing building.

Jannes Linders

AN INTERPLAY

The renovated building complex consists of a data center designed by Royal HaskoningDHV and a highly secured yet seductive façade designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects. The design of the Front of House is a collaboration between Benthem Crouwel Architects and Royal HaskoningDHV. All old and new parts of the building are connected by a corridor which acts as the backbone of AM7.

Jannes Linders

FRONT OF HOUSE

The transparent, accessible Front of House with its open reception area and a double-height glass wall is the new inviting entrance to AM7. The white façade has subtle vertical articulation made of sleek glass surfaces with varying screen printed patterns shading the sunlight from the offices while maintaining transparency. The clear glass is printed with a strategically placed, dot pattern that fluctuates from transparent to closed, depending on the (semi-)public or private character of the spaces behind it.

Jannes Linders

In the center of the entrance hall of the Front of House is the characteristic red Equinix silo where the security lobby and registration desk are located. All public spaces in the Front of House are placed around this cylindrical space. While passing through the various security shells, each visitor meanders around the silo as they go further into the building. The three-story building, connected by stairs and elevator also connects on every level to the adjacent data center. The first and second floors contain offices, meeting rooms and relaxation areas for clients.