Burgwallen Police Station

For the accommodation of the new Robust Basic Team, the Police purchased a prominent building at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 35–39 in Amsterdam. The property is part of a multifunctional complex with shops, residences, office space, and parking facilities, located in the historic heart of the city. The original complex was completed in 1996 to a design by UNStudio, led by Ben van Berkel. In 2000, part of the building was demolished, after which the remaining volume offered space for a new interpretation.

The contract for the total renovation and redevelopment of the building was awarded to De Twee Snoeken. The design has been fully adapted to the principles of The New Way of Working, with significant attention to flexibility, overview, and collaboration. During the renovation, almost the entire interior was stripped. This extensive approach made it possible to rebuild the building from the inside out, fully tailored to the specific requirements of a modern police station.

The renovated interior received a logical and functional layout, including a Police Service Point for public reception, detention facilities, changing rooms, a building management desk, and various office spaces. In an environment like this, safety, overview, and comfort are crucial preconditions. At the same time, the building must be pleasant and functional for daily users, who often operate under high pressure.

Gerard Nijmeijer of Valstar Simonis was involved in the project as an advisor. In this role, he focused on a well-functioning indoor climate and a sustainable technical installation that suits the intensive occupancy of the building.

The climate ceiling in the building was supplied by Interalu NV. The SAPP climate ceiling system was chosen, which is specially developed to integrate various functions. The Atomis Fusion SAPP luminaires, specifically designed for this type of ceiling, were used in this ceiling. These luminaires combine lighting with climate functionality and ensure a calm and uniform ceiling appearance.

The applied lighting contributes to clear orientation and a comfortable working environment, without detracting from the robust and professional appearance appropriate for a police station. With the renovation, completed in 2016, the Burgwallen Police Station has a future-proof building where architecture, technology, and use are perfectly aligned.