NoordBaak: a new dynamic along the IJ.
On the banks of the IJ, in the heart of the NDSM shipyard, Noordbaak is creating a place where living and working come together naturally. The complex comprises 207 apartments and approximately 2,200 m² of commercial space, spread across seven units. The NDSM shipyard has evolved into a vibrant neighborhood where creativity, entrepreneurship, and culture reinforce one another. Noordbaak is part of this development and, together with surrounding projects such as Pontkade, NieuwDok, and Nautisch NDSM, forms a new urban complex on the waterfront.
Built on the character of the shipyard
The design of Noordbaak was created by the architectural firm De Zwarte Hond and is inspired by the rugged, unpolished character of the shipyard. The building consists of four distinctive volumes that together form a single powerful and organic whole. The commercial spaces are located in the base and border Immediately the boardwalk along the IJ. This transition between the building and the water creates an open and lively interaction between the interior and exterior.
“NoordBaak is the new landmark on the corner by the IJ. The commercial spaces are located on the ground floor and border the boardwalk, which serves as both the architectural and physical terminus of the development toward the water. The open nature of NoordBaak’s design creates a lively interaction between the building’s functions, the outdoor spaces, and the waterfront.”
The demand behind the square footage
In 2024, Broersma Werken was Broersma Werken for the project with a clear mandate: to optimize the commercial space. This involved not only the layout, but also its use, target audience, and positioning.
In collaboration with developer G&S& and fellow real estate agent DILS, the plan was reviewed and refined. The question was not how many square meters Available , but how they could best be utilized within the dynamics of the site.
Move, scale, and refine
The process was characterized by a constant balancing act between scale and flexibility. Units were either merged or split up, depending on market demand and their intended use.
The spaces are designed for a wide range of users: from dental practices and architectural firms to the hospitality industry, media companies, and business service providers. It is precisely this diversity that ensures a vibrant and sustainable use of the space.
“The starting point was clear: we didn’t want to attract investors, but rather parties who would run their own businesses here. That calls for a different approach.”
From market insight to customized solutions
Broersma Werken a connecting role in this process. Drawing on market knowledge and a strong network, the company deliberately focused on end users: entrepreneurs who have a long-term commitment to the location and are present there every day.
By getting involved early in the process to help shape the layout, target audience, and positioning, we developed a strategy that combines sales and community-building. Renders and a carefully planned sales event supported this process.
“Because we got involved early in the process together with DILS, we were able to provide strategic value to the New build project. As a result, all units were Sold prior to completion.”
A community before completion
The result is a commercial building that was fully Sold even before completion. In total, it comprises nearly 2,500 m² of space, divided into seven units. The tenants include a diverse mix of owners and users: from architects, a dentist, and a law firm to restaurants and media companies. This combination creates a dynamic environment in which different disciplines reinforce one another.
“We look back on a pleasant collaboration and are delighted to welcome a diverse group of entrepreneurs who will enrich Noordbaak and contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of NDSM.”
The space comes to life
With completion scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, Noordbaak will continue to take shape. The spaces will be delivered as shell units and range in size from approximately 90 m² to 662 m², spread over one or two floors. Only when the first occupants move in will the full picture emerge: the daily comings and goings of entrepreneurs, residents, and visitors who together shape the identity of the place.
More than meters along the IJ
Noordbaak demonstrates how a commercial development can be more than just the sum of its square footage. By focusing on use, quality, and cohesion from the outset, a place is created that not only functions but also takes on meaning within the city. For Broersma Werken , this project Broersma Werken project importance of an integrated approach, in which consulting, positioning, and networking come together to produce a result that extends beyond the transaction itself.
