Second-Hand Materials Get New Life As Café In Amsterdam

Noorderpark in Amsterdam needed a new community structure, but funds were limited as the project was crowd-funded. Designers Bureau SLA and Overtreders W decided to save expenses by using 100% second-hand materials. Even the van used to collect the materials from all over Holland was purchased secondhand.

An ancient Japanese technique, shou sugi ban, was used to produce a cost-effective, low-maintenance exterior cladding of charred wood. Below is a quick video of the collective efforts made to realize the Noorderparkbar.

The result is anything but second-rate. The thoughtful design process has produced a unique little cafe that will serve park-goers for years to come.

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