To mark the quantum leap in Almere, OMA decided to concentrate new program for city and business center on only two sites: between the town hall square and the boulevard alongside the Weerwater and between the station and the planned Nelson Mandela Park). This concentration is essential for the unambiguous delineation of Almere’s new status. It will also make it possible to create a new and recognizable form contrasting with the existing, low density elements (specialist retailers, small-scale offices) which make Almere what it is today.

The chosen density means to build a 130 000m2 office complex north of the station, taking maximum advantage of its location. The density of the shopping complex means that the boulevard can be freed from the planned commercial program leaving space for cultural and leisure programs.

This concentration also offers the opportunity to create a - diagonal - short cut between the two shopping districts. The strip to the east of the center will be preserved from immediate development which offers an attractive location for a new expansion initiative at a later stage.