A new era of urban living
Waterfort Plaza marks the starting point of a new chapter for Punda, Willemstad.
A new urban area with its own contemporary character surrounded by rich layers of history. Where residents and visitors meet in a dynamic environment to live, work or simply enjoy themselves. With an attractive mixed-use program, well-connected routes, green public spaces and qualitative urban design, the masterplan is the first step to transform this area from a closed-off space to an inviting destination for all.
The masterplan prioritizes livability, quality, heritage, climate, sustainability and a thriving economy. During its development, conversations were held with various stakeholders to gather insights and ensure the plan reflects shared ambitions and practical opportunities for the future of the area.
Our approach to the Waterfort Plaza project is ambitious, complex and multifaceted and requires long-term commitment, producing a proposition that requires a genuine team effort from a team of professionals and stakeholders, working collaboratively to shape a meaningful development that creates lasting value in the years ahead.
A new point of view
The project area is a unique location in Punda. The word Punda is derived from the word ‘point’ (in Dutch: punt). And it is at this point where the Dutch West India Company established Willemstad in 1634. Fort Amsterdam was the first structure that was built and was quickly followed by the first version of the Waterfort to protect the entrance of the harbor. Even though, the project area was closed off to the public for centuries before being turned into the former Plaza Hotel, the site remains a fundamental part of Willemstad’s history. That is why Waterfort Plaza will become a place where its historic character will be embraced to create a new addition to Punda that meets the needs of today’s urban society.
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Waterfort Plaza
The new name, Waterfort Plaza, combines two known names related to the site; Waterfort referring to the Waterfort monument and Plaza as a nudge to the former Plaza Hotel. Both names signify new beginnings. Waterfort being the first defense structure and Plaza Hotel as the first high-end hotel on Curaçao to lead the island into a new touristic era. Both are symbols of progress and are therefore fitting for a new development that, in the coming years, will transform a rather closed-off area into a vibrant new part of the city, where you can experience living, working, and leisure between the Caribbean Waterfront and the energetic city center. A lively place for everyone to gather, in a unique location, that enriches both the waterfront and cityscape of Willemstad.
Honoring the past, Building the Future - Revitalizing Willemstad
We aim to redevelop the area in a way that honors the character of the Unesco World Heritage Site while contributing to a new chapter for Willemstad in today’s urban and economic landscape. This development builds on the past, strengthens the present, and creates value for the future, adding meaning to the revitalization of the city center and reconnecting it to the broader urban fabric.
Situated within the heritage zone of the Unesco World Heritage Site, the area contributes to the cultural and historical values that give Willemstad its unique identity. At the same time, the site has always had a distinct character and function within the city, setting it apart from other urban areas and shaping its unique identity. Over time, especially when the hotel closed, the area got disconnected from the rest of the city. In developing the masterplan, various heritage studies have been carried out to gain a thorough understanding of the site’s history and cultural value and to make sure the plan takes into account the Outstanding Universal Value of Willemstad as recognized by Unesco.
Rather than remaining isolated, the next phase of the masterplan will focus on reintegrating the site through carefully designed contemporary elements that complement its heritage context and strengthen its role within the urban fabric.
By reactivating the monumental Waterfort, this iconic heritage will become part of the city’s future. The multicultural character of the island and its history will be translated into a multifunctional program that encompasses culture, entrepreneurship, residential spaces and recreation. In doing so, the Waterfort Plaza project respects its historical setting while building towards a destination that reconnects people with Willemstad’s past and future potential.
Stimulate the local economy
Waterfort Plaza aims to use urban development to strengthen the socio-economic position of residents in Curaçao. The development should contribute to both direct and indirect employment, focusing not only on the quantity but also on the quality and diversity of jobs to stimulate diversification of the economy. The location also offers opportunities to stimulate a different kind of tourism known as heritage tourism. In addition, the development aims to create opportunities for young entrepreneurs and professionals. It aims to become a dynamic incubator that fosters entrepreneurship and retains and attracts talent. A future-oriented place with a rich history as a source of inspiration for living, working and recreation together.
Beyond buildings, creating value
The ambitions of Waterfort Plaza go beyond simply developing a real estate project. The redevelopment itself is not a goal. It presents an opportunity to revitalize Punda and the rest of Willemstad – a chance that cannot be missed, considering its status as a shared Kingdom Heritage. It is an opportunity to improve the quality of life for residents within the Kingdom. Urban renewal requires long-term commitment, and a single project alone cannot achieve this. It requires support and collaboration within the Kingdom. The aim is that the Waterfort Plaza project will serve as a catalyst for further development in the downtown area, benefiting the entire Kingdom. Collaboration in the areas of education, entrepreneurship, culture and sustainability is crucial. These align well with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of “Partnerships for the Goals”.