“At this prominent location on Apollolaan, we have together realised a beautiful office building, which makes an impact on the entire neighbourhood. The design is harmonised with its surroundings, thus creating a very natural integration. We proudly look at this magnificent addition to the city.”
Mr Lesley Bamberger – CEO Kroonenberg Groep
| Category | Office |
| Client | Kroonenberg Groep |
| Location | Amsterdam |
| Construction costs | To request |
| Architect: | Grandmother |
Project Description
At Apollolaan in Amsterdam-Zuid, Kroonenberg Groep has replaced an office building with a transparent, state-of-the-art office building, designed by Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA). The new building comprises five storeys and replaces the largely opaque office building of JP Morgan bank, dating from the late 1980s. Situated on a corner plot at Apollolaan 171, surrounded by a mix of offices, residences, and luxury hotels, the design offers a transparent appearance that seamlessly integrates with the historic architecture of Berlage from the early 20th century.
Architectural Design
The façade on Apollolaan is a striking feature of the building, with interlocking glass volumes creating the impression of a jigsaw puzzle. This transparency generates a visual connection with the surrounding greenery. The main entrance is located at the corner of the office, and a recessed ground floor façade further diminishes the volumes, resulting in an inviting public space at the entrance along Apollolaan. The façade on the residential side is terraced and clad in custom-designed bricks arranged for a woven effect.
Light and Art
The building's transparency allows for abundant natural light and offers tenants stunning views. Green marble has been used in the central core, reflecting the richness of trees along Apollolaan. This material has been applied in the lobby for the entrance cladding. Additionally, Tracey Emin's flamingo-pink neon installation with the text “The more of you the more I love you” has been given a prominent place. Originally hung on the exterior wall of the former bank building, the artwork is now visible to passers-by thanks to the transparency of the new architecture.
Realisation and Result
The dismantling of the original bank building has been successfully completed. The existing building was demolished down to the ground floor slab, while the existing car park was retained. The new building has been placed on top of this, resulting in over 6,500 m² of office space for rent, including basement parking for cars, scooters and bicycles. Construction work started in the autumn of 2021 and the office building was completed in the summer of 2023.
vb&t Projectmanagement has managed the project for the realisation of this replacement new build on behalf of the Kroonenberg Groep.
| Start plan development | December 2020 |
| Start implementation phase | June 2021 |
| Completion | late August 2023 |
VB&T Activities
vb&t Projectmanagement has performed the total cost and project management for this project from the initiation phase through to the aftercare phase. The project included the following work activities for vb&t, amongst others: