For a water and sewerage utility company in Amsterdam, expectations are high in regards to the stormwater management of its new company headquarters. Atelier Dreiseitl designed the detailed operation system and shaped the aesthetic character of the water basin which nestles at the base of the new building. Form, depth and water flow patterns were analysed, so that an optimised functional system could be seamlessly integrated into the aesthetic fine-tuning of the basin.

Two different types of cleansing biotopes are installed on opposing sides of the basin. The plants are terraced down so that regardless whether the water level in the basin is at its maximum or minimum, they can still do their work. Different plant groups reflect different cleaning functions, giving the basin scenic variety and a soft intimacy while at the same time ensuring that the water remains sufficiently clean at all times and water levels.