ARCHITECTUURGIDS.NL / ARCHITECTUREGUIDE.NL

RAILWAY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

G.W. VAN HEUKELOM, 1917-1921, Catharijnesingel 58/Moreelsepark, Utrecht

ARCHITECT(URAL OFFICE):
Georg van Heukelom

ARTIST:
Herman Veldhuis
Jan Schouten

RENOVATOR:
André van Stigt

INTERIOR ARCHITECT:
Merkx + Girod

ARTIST:
Willem Coenraad Brouwer
Willem Valk
Marc Ruygrok

BUILDING TYPE:
Office buildings

STATE:
J. van Stigt (ren. 1999-2002); M.J.M. Ruygrok (UFO, 2000)

Despite problems with the foundations and wartime conditions (rationing of materials, transport difficulties) this monumental railway administration building was erected in double-quick time using no less than 22 million bricks. Despite this traditional method of construction and the materials (oak, leaded windows) its rhythmic, abstract facades give the building a modern look. The interior is dominated by heavy brick columns and pilasters and elliptical arches, creating a severe, almost devotional atmosphere.