The iconic Olympiaplein receives a sustainable upgrade by Pontus Alv
At Amsterdam’s iconic Olympiaplein, Nine Yards teamed up with Pontus Alv (Polar Skate Co.) and the Municipality of Amsterdam to activate a historic community space in a unique way. With minimal means and maximum collaboration, a new generation of obstacles was created: professionally designed, donated by Alv, and built according to the NEN-EN 14794:2019 standard. The result: a sustainable future for a skate-owned space, without compromising its raw character.
A community spot with deep roots
Olympiaplein has been a landmark in the Amsterdam skate scene for decades. The 3,000 m² concrete floor gave skaters the freedom to build their own obstacles — raw, creative, and with full ownership. But it also meant: little safety, durability, or maintenance. The community kept the spot alive, but the infrastructure needed a push.
Pontus Alv saw the potential and donated a design for seven free-standing elements that fit the culture and daily users of the space. Not a completely new skatepark, but an upgrade that respects the values that make Olympiaplein unique.
A skatepark in motion
Collaboration with the Municipality of Amsterdam was crucial, not only to place the obstacles, but also to anchor the activation within urban policy. The project served as a test case: what works, what truly benefits the users, and how to preserve the core values of this skate-owned spot.
Pontus’ vision was clear: no large-scale redevelopment, but a meaningful upgrade. Two granite curbs, a granite slappy curb, a granite manual pad, a pole jam inspired by Amsterdam’s tree protectors, a steel flatrail and a granite rail. Compact, characterful, and built to professional standards. Within weeks, a renewed skate space stood ready; immediately embraced by the community.
Today, Olympiaplein is alive once more. During weekly sessions and community events: supported by Nike SB, Ben-G Skateshop, Pop Trading Company and others. Amsterdam’s skate culture thrives here. Skaters of all ages and levels find a place to practice, connect, and be inspired.
This activation proves: you don’t need massive budgets to make an impact. It’s about trust, collaboration, and giving space to the culture of street skateboarding.
From the ground up: built by skaters, for skaters
An upgrade with character intact
Minimal means, maximum impact
Activating space, strengthening community
Related projects
Our inspired solutions have shaped many of our designs. From skateparks to custom builds. You can recognize our work by the quality and the elegant forms within each project.
Take a look
