cultural centre CREA

On the Roeterseiland in Amsterdam centre, a previous diamond cutting plant has been transformed into the University cultural centre. The former factory plant (a listed city monument) has been partly renovated, and partly replaced, with a new development. This new development is situated behind a preserved façade, and is able to house functions with specific requirements regarding sound and space (music studios, theatre and concert hall). In the front and hind parts of what was previously the factory, the remaining functions are housed (a café, offices, art studios, and workshop- and project rooms). The highlight of this design is the spacious void, which is positioned in line with the courtyard. The void serves as an infrastructural hub, with people's paths crossing in the main entrance, the lobby, the stairs and bridges, but also houses air ducts through this space. Making the air conditioning installation visible renders a visual reference to the industrial past of this complex.