‘The Dutch Building Award 2011’ for Hermitage Amsterdam by Hans van Heeswijk Architects

Former minister Karla Peijs presents architect Hans van Heeswijk and Hermitage Amsterdam director Ernst W. Veen with de Nederlandse Bouwprijs ('The Dutch Building Award') yesterday during a gala event in Utrecht.

Hans van Heeswijk and Ernst W. Veen. Photo source: Get in the Picture/VNU exhibitions Europe

Winner in the category Buildings, Hermitage Amsterdam

Between June 2007 and June 2009 a metamorphosis took place next to the River Amstel; the Amstelhof nursing home changed into a state-of-the-art museum, Hermitage Amsterdam.

Jury comments

The jury deemed the contrast between the history of the nursing home and the building's new function to be very unique. The old structure is still recognisable, and new elements have been integrated with care and devotion. The Hermitage Amsterdam harmonises wonderfully with the exceptionally rich context of the city and is carefully integrated into its surroundings. The original building has been treated with respect thanks to the restrained detailing. All the senses are stimulated. The entrance through the old Ossenpoort (=Ox Gate) and the splendid inner garden are noteworthy, the jury reports. The street level has even been lowered so that the street and courtyard connect with each other at the same height through the gateway.

Moreover, the renovation is a successful collaboration between the architect, interior designer and landscape architect. The fine teamwork among all parties involved resulted in a project built with craftsmanship and an eye for detail. This is clearly visible according to the jury. The result bears witness to excellence on the part of the client. The jury considers it particularly noteworthy that the project was completed on time and within the budget, making it a valuable and unique achievement.

Winner: Hans van Heeswijk Architects in collaboration with the Hermitage aan de Amstel Foundation, Merkx+Girod Architecten, Michael van Gessel, and Bouwbedrijf M.J. De Nijs en Zonen.

‘We should be much more sparing with our built heritage. For years, older buildings have been messed up or demolished unnecessarily. Projects like the Hermitage Amsterdam and Graphic Design Museum in Breda go very well luckily. Their careful and clear renovation means that these buildings acquire a whole new life.’

Hans van Heeswijk, architect

‘The remarkable thing about this project was the great enthusiasm among all those involved. It became a shared dream to turn the Amstelhof into a beautiful public-friendly centre of culture.’

Ernst W. Veen, director Hermitage Amsterdam

For more information:

Hermitage Amsterdam

Press Office
Pom Verhoeff, Kim van Niftrik

T:	+31 (0)20 - 530 87 55
F:	+31 (0)20 - 530 87 50
E:	pressoffice@hermitage.nl
W:	www.hermitage.nl/pers