Bijlmermeer, a neighborhood in Amsterdam, is renowned for its iconic honeycomb high-rises, a bold architectural experiment from the 1960s and 70s. Conceived as a modernist utopia, the honeycomb design aimed to provide spacious, light-filled apartments in a green, car-free environment. The high-rises were built in a hexagonal pattern, intended to foster a sense of community and provide ample communal spaces.

However, the reality of Bijlmermeer diverged sharply from its utopian vision. Over time, the area faced numerous challenges, including high crime rates, social isolation, and economic decline. The honeycomb structures, such as Gravestein and Gelderhoofd, became symbols of the neighborhood’s struggles. Gravestein, in particular, became infamous for its deteriorating conditions and became a focal point for discussions on urban decay.