De Munthof

De Munthof is a distinctive building in the center of Amsterdam, located on Reguliersdwarsstraat. The building dates from the late sixties and was first renovated in 1983. In 2018, an extensive renovation of this office monument began again, with the goal of making the building relevant and future-proof once more, without losing its character and history.

Originally, De Munthof was a parking garage, with shops on the ground floor. The various parking levels were accessed via a distinctive helical ramp. This helix forms an important architectural element in the new design. Instead of removing it completely, the ramp has been cleverly and playfully incorporated into the office space. This created a unique spatial experience that references the building’s original function, while perfectly fitting contemporary office use.

The renovation design was created by Dennis Hofman of Architektencombinatie. The plan strongly focused on reuse, spatiality, and a clear identity. A striking intervention is the addition of an extra floor on top of the existing building. This new layer is finished with a beautifully curved grass roof, which not only contributes aesthetically but also has sustainable added value. The curved roof also forms the backdrop for a special lighting concept.

Valstar Simonis acted as advisor and was involved in the integral coordination of the installations and indoor climate. The installation work was carried out by Lomans Amersfoort BV, who was responsible for careful and high-quality technical implementation.

Atomis supplied Fusion LED line lighting fixtures for this project. These fixtures were custom-made in various sizes and integrated into the climate ceiling islands. This creates a calm and cohesive ceiling image where light and climate form one whole. Between the ceiling islands, pendant fixtures of the same design were used, creating rhythm and cohesion in the space.

A special part of the project is located on the fifth floor. Here, an intelligent 48V lighting installation was realized, controlled via Bluetooth 4.2 LE mesh. In collaboration with Patrick van der Meulen, Xicato XIM LED units were used, with each fixture being wirelessly and individually controllable. This system gives shape to Dennis Hofman’s architectural concept and functions as a starry sky in the curved roof. The light enhances the spatial experience here and makes the roof a real eye-catcher.

The renovation of De Munthof was completed in May 2019. The building is rented by the Nuts Group, a supplier of various energy brands to approximately 650,000 end users. With this renovation, a former parking monument has been transformed into a characterful and high-quality office building, where architecture, technology, and light reinforce each other.