The borough of Amsterdam-West consists primarily of the pre-World War II part of Amsterdam to the west of the Singelgracht.

These neighborhoods are characterised by revolutiebouw (literally: 'revolution architecture'): quickly and cheaply constructed 19th-century apartment blocks for worker's and middle-class families once considered of substandard quality, but currently in high demand for their charming, urban outlook.

Neighbouring areas constructed in the early twentieth century such as Frederik Hendrikbuurt, which borders the Frederik Hendrikplantsoen park tend to be less densely populated and are characterised by the Amsterdam School of architecture contemporary with Art Nouveau and designed to create a total architectural experience, interior and exterior.

Between 1920 and 1940, further urban expansion projects known as Plan West were carried out in western direction on the territory of the former municipality of Sloten.

Responsibilities delegated to the 2014–2018 district committees include parks and recreation, streets and squares, refuse collection, permits and events, preparation of zoning plans, passports and drivers licenses, and welfare work.

Executive committee Chair is Gerolf Bouwmeester (D66), the other members are Fenna Ulichki (GL) and Jeroen van Berkel (PvdA).