The Keizersgrachtsnede ('Keizersgracht Incision') is a cut made in the high rise buildings on the IJdock development, to enable a free(er) view on the IJ waterfront.

The cut is best experienced when standing on the Niek Engelschman bridge, the bridge over the Keizersgracht next to the Westerkerk (see map).
The reason for making the Keizersgrachtsnede is to show respect for the old town - seeing a modern highrise building block the view when walking the 17th century canals is regarded as undesirable.

The roof covering in the cut is made of one type of grey, raw natural stone, to ensure unity in the view over the IJ - as opposed to the architectural diversity created in the IJdock project as a whole.