De Nederlandsche Bank has been awarded the Geurt Brinkgreve Bokaal, the annual prize recognising the best initiative that revitalises an existing building while preserving its cultural and historical value and strengthening the quality of the city of Amsterdam.
The jury praised the transformation of De Nederlandsche Bank into an open, inviting and prominent presence in the city centre. Residents, visitors and school groups can now drop in for coffee, view art or enjoy the garden. The courtyard is accessible to the public during the day, and a new terrace along the Singelgracht creates an attractive spot for a walk by the water.
A defining element of the renovation was the dismantling of the round tower, which will be reconstructed elsewhere. Its removal brought more light, air and space to the heart of the building. The jury highlighted this as an example of sustainable demolition with a strong emphasis on reuse. The renovation was designed by Mecanoo and carried out by SPIE.
The jury also commended the careful, inclusive process. Local residents were closely involved, and their input helped lead to practical improvements such as lockers where homeless Amsterdammers can store belongings during the day. The technical complexity of the project was considerable, particularly in balancing ambitious sustainability goals with respect for the original design by architect Duintjer.
Second and third place were awarded to De Tafelberg in Zuidoost and Wildeman Station in Nieuw-West. De Tafelberg was developed by De Alliantie and Levvel and designed by NL Architects. Wildeman Station is an initiative of the Samenwonen-Samenleven Foundation, designed by BETA.