Mecanoo transform inner vault into public space

The headquarters of the De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) in Amsterdam has reopened, following a major renovation and reopositioning programme designed by Tenderstream member Mecanoo. DNB is the independent central bank of the Netherlands, housed in a mid-century modern style building by architect Marius Duintjer. Since its construction, the transparent, open nature of the design was impaired by security requirements, as fences and facilities for armed police were added. The relocation of gold reserves and banknote operations to the cash centre in Zeist created an opportunity to transform the structure and open it up to the public.

In the winning design proposal, Mecanoo decided to move the DNB entrance to Frederiksplein, cutting through the vault. The most secure part of the bank is now open to the public, with exhibitions that tell the story of gold, money, the economy, and DNB’s core activities. The atrium brings daylight to the basement levels through a double staircase, and serves as the venue for meetings for the banks 2,300 employees. The restaurant is positioned like a mezzanine overlooking the quay outside, which has been transformed into a public gathering place. 

Once past the security zone, guests are welcomed into a semi-public area, featuring intimate breakout zones with tables, seating areas, and numerous plants. Inspired by the Rose Main Reading Room at the New York Public Library, the monumental 120-metre-long reading room is surrounded by the crowns of Dutch elms. Workspaces for DNB employees lie beyond the third security zone and are spread across the courtyard-shaped low-rise building and the tower. 

Mecanoo added a palette of warm circular and biobased materials to Duintjer’s selection of robust concrete, glass, and steel, contributing to excellent acoustics. The colour scheme is inspired by the vibrant paper currency from the last period of the Dutch guilder, while 1960s fluorescent tube lighting has been replaced with a combination of energy-efficient, functional, atmospheric, and theatrical lighting.

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 13.12.2017 here

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