Hello Zuidas - september/oktober editie #57 by Zuidas Publishers

HELLOZUIDAS.COM SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2021

CONTRIBUTES TO A BETTER LIVING ENVIRONMENT

WINY MAAS CO-FOUNDER OF MVRDV

Luxury Living Beyond Expectations

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Preface

PREFACE

Next issue [58] 1st of November 2021

Hello Zuidas invests in trees! How we do that? Through our sponsorship for Trees for All, we plant trees that restore existing forests.

Are you back in the swing of life in Zuidas? I sure hope so. Restrictive measures notwithstanding, there has been plenty to see and do. Last month, the Grachtenfestival 2021 came to town. As always, it was a joy to listen to music, albeit in smaller groups than we would have liked, at some stunning locations in Zuidas; to take a moment to slow down. That’s also what ARTZUID urges

VALLEY: A FUTURISTIC GREEN GEM

us to do. The sculptures scattered around

Sure, I’ve walked and driven past it

Valley gets a big fat 10! Plus bonus points

have a chance to visit these artworks with

hundreds of times as it was going up,

for the fact that a portion of the building

an ARTZUID guide. Which brings me to the

but to actually ascend to one of the

will be open to the public.

magazine. Don’t forget to take a look at our

top floors of the new Valley building

Zuidas are both soothing and inspiring. On 14 September, Hello Zuidas members will

calendar pages. There are a ton of fun events

is something altogether different. ‘A

In this issue, we shine a light on homes

still coming up this year, including our End-

futuristic green gem for Zuidas and all

and living. With ever more people settling

of-Year meeting at PAN! See you there?

of the Netherlands’, Hester Alberdingk

in Zuidas, this district has become a true

Thijm, director of the AkzoNobel Art

urban community. Quite a bit of new

OLIVIER OTTEN

Foundation, commented underneath

construction is slated for the coming

Managing director of Hello Zuidas

a picture of the building I posted on

years, and I’m perpetually fascinated by

LinkedIn. I couldn’t have said it better.

the speed of developments here. I’ve been

Valley is nearly all unwrapped, gradually

working in Zuidas for almost ten years now,

revealing itself for to see. Architect Winy

and there hasn’t been a dull moment yet!

Maas kindly made time to take us on a tour and tell us how the design came

We’re excited to share this latest issue of

about and where he got his inspiration.

Hello Zuidas with you and, as always, wish

Coen van Oostrom, founder and CEO

you... happy reading!

of EDGE and developer of Valley, once told me that you can only get a real

ROMY LANGE

impression of a building a year after its

Editor-in-chief Hello Zuidas

official completion. Still, if you ask me,

r.lange@zuidaspublishers.nl

Maakt Rijden Geweldig

VAN POELGEEST , ONDERSCHEIDEND KARAKTER.

The International en de BMW M3 Competition The International is een unieke golfclub in Nederland. Het onderscheidende karakter zit hem vooral in de eigentijdsheid van de baan, het clubhuis en de leden. The International is op geen enkele manier te vergelijken met een traditionele golfvereniging. De sfeer op de baan en binnen de club zijn ontspannen en open, op basis van volstrekte gelijkwaardigheid en wars van oude tradities en tuttigheid. En dat laatste is precies het onderscheidende karakter van de BMW M3. Van de voor- tot achterbumper is er geen tuttigheid te bekennen: dit is een échte BMW M. De nierengrille is veelbesproken maar bovenal eigentijds, de enige oude traditie is het blauw-witte BMW logo op de neus en het rijden met deze sportauto is de ideale manier om te ontspannen en gedachten te verzetten. Zoveel hebben deze twee gemeen. Ontdek BMW M nu op één van de zeven Van Poelgeest vestigingen.

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I E

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Index

INDEX

06 Coverstory Winy Maas 10 Building the Future

Co-Founder of MVRDV

• Workprogressing smoothly at Amsterdam Zuid Station • New Link for Zuidas loopsystem • An ambitious project

14 15 Column 16 Got A Minute 19 Hello Zuidas introduces 20 Property

Share #Zuidas Social Media

Paul van Lange

Perceptions about living in Zuidas

Trevor Holtkamp, community manager

Zuidas: mixed-use urban community in Amsterdam

24 Finance 26 Agenda 30 Living and Lifestyle Special

51 Sustainability 53 Business in the Spotlight 55 Hello You 56 Legal 58 Mobility 60 New Members HZ 62 Memo Board 64 Meet The..

Holland Metropole and the residential building challenge

Don’t miss it

Rosarium

Intro interview Sandra Risseeuw 32 Zuidas Home Tour, Xavier – Eva Lindfors 35 De Hypotheker 36 The Mayor 39 Von Poll Real Estate 41 Corporate Housing Factory 43 Kalter & Kalter

45 46 Architecture 49 Hello You

Business in the Spotlight De Match Maker

Atrium Zuidas

The Gift Summer

Sustainable urban development

Grachtenfestival

Planning and Environmental Law

Win-Win With OV-Buddies

Hello Zuidas welcomes the new members

Zuidas Updates

Security Guard

With an excellent business climate, world-renowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions.

Coverstory

“MY FOCUS IS ON HOW I COULD CONTRIBUTE TO A BETTER WORLD, A BETTER LIVING ENVIRONMENT AND A BETTER FUTURE FOR OUR CITIES” Winy Maas - co-founder of MVRDV

The newest building to rise along Beethovenstraat has everybody talking. With its complex design, Valley marks MVRDV cofounder Winy Maas’ first development in Zuidas. His architecture firm is well known in The Netherlands thanks to major urban projects like the Markthal, the Boijmans van Beuningen Depot, Westerdok and The Modernist. But MVRDV has earned massive international acclaim as well. We caught up with Winy Maas in one of Valley’s fabulous future penthouses, where he told us more about the design, the partnerships, the mixed-use concept and the exciting Sapiens project. With his engagement and drive, it’s clear the world is going to be seeing a lot more of Winy Maas. What inspired you to submit

The building looks very complex.

before the whole thing is green. With 370

this design to the client?

Was it difficult to work out the

containers to be planted containing more

“In one sense, Valley was inspired by Zuidas

sketches and hand them over to the

than 13,000 shrubs, hardy plants, climbers

itself. Precisely a rational business setting

builder? Were they apprehensive?

and trees, that’s going to be an almost

like this can really use a multifunctional

“You’ll have to ask the contractor, but

military operation. I expect it won’t be until

apartment building like Valley. That was

I don’t think so. Everybody – clients,

spring 2022 that Valley actually looks how

also the brief we got from the City of

contractors and subcontractors – all love

we designers intended.”

Amsterdam and the property developer,

a chance be involved in complex projects.

EDGE Technologies: design something

Valley is a big vbuilding, at 75,000 m2, and

What’s your angle on the intermingling

for the future. Valley serves to enrich this

recognizable from a long way off because

of office workers and residents inside

location in multiple ways. It’s open, green

of its three irregularly shaped towers with

one building? How do you facilitate that?

and blends a range of functions, from

cantilevered apartments. There’s also the

“Enabling those kinds of interactions was

housing, offices, hospitality and shops to

‘grotto’: effectively Valley’s foyer, which

a particular incentive for me, because why

cultural amenities. Aside from that, it’s

is a beautiful stone-clad indoor space

would you want to segregate a building’s

‘overrun’ by nature. The planting designed

illuminated by two large glass domes

users? And many residents are people who

by landscape architect Piet Oudolf spills

twice the size of the water-filled ponds in

work in offices too. I believe this building

down a series of terraces all the way to

the valley above. Obviously, this unusual

can bring about an evolution of housing

street level. Also, you don’t have to live or

configuration is a challenge to build. The

and can prove that, yes, you can create

work in Valley to go up it; the way into the

technical phase of construction is nearing

homes and other amenities in the middle

valley is open to the public.”

completion, it will take a while longer

of an urban business district. I envisage

Text: Romy Lange & Céline Boute • Photography: Dieuwertje van der Stoep

Coverstory

“Valley is a vertical village, where residents and the people who work there feel at home and where encounters spontaneously happen”

transportation, food, clean drinking water, clean oceans, financial instruments...” What might Valley’s contribution or significance be for future area

Valley as a vertical village; a place where

Femke Halsema has written a letter in

development in Zuidas?

residents and the people who work there

support of the initiative. The concept is to

“Valley will be like an oasis in Zuidas, and

feel at home and where encounters just

develop a space that’s a cross between a

could mark a first step towards the further

spontaneously happen, because of all

museum, a laboratory and a workplace,

greening of this part of Amsterdam. I can’t

the different routes running through and

where young academics will tackle

emphasize enough how important it is to

across the building.”

projects tied to the future of our planet; to

bring more nature into cities. For water

climate improvements and biodiversity. As

storage, to attract birds and insects back

Has Sapiens got the green light yet?

I see it, that’s one of the most important

into urban environments, to cool them –

And how are those plans shaping up,

questions one can ask: What can I do in

since plants are our main weapon against

insofar as you can talk about them?

my work to contribute to a better world,

heat stress – and to keep cities habitable.”

“We’re working hard to pull it off, in

a better living environment and a better

partnership with Naturalis, VU Amsterdam

future for our cities? Sapiens is about all

Is this the project you’re most

and TU Delft’s think tank The Why Factory.

the things society needs to address right

proud of? Or is there another?

We’re still looking for some more sponsors,

now: global warming, biodiversity, fighting

“My projects are like my children;

but the city has embraced it and Mayor

poverty, new cities, alternative buildings,

they are all so dear to me.”

Winy Maas - 62 Co-founder of MVRDV Favourite spot in Zuidas: Valley’s future sky bar, for the panoramic view. Dream or wish for the future (on any front): That we’ll harness technology to create a genuinely threedimensional flexible green city or borough, where we can take flying cars to picnic or play football in the air.

Building The Future

Amsterdam Zuidas

+31 (0)800 50 65

Information Centre

contact@zuidas.nl

Follow on zuidas

Central Hall, WTC

www.zuidas.nl

@zuidasamsterdam

BUILDING THE FUTURE

smoothly

WORKSPROGRESSING AT AMSTERDAM ZUID STATION During the weekend of 21-22 August 2021, we took a major step in the construction of the second pedestrian passageway underneath Amsterdam Zuid station. The work involved installing two enormous concrete roof sections for the new passageway. The whole thing went like clockwork. The most critical phase of the work got underway on Saturday around noon. A group of interested members of the public watched as two giant concrete slabs were moved into their final positions in unison. “Yes! It’s definitely moving!”, spectators shouted from the station platform. “You’re so lucky to get to see this!”, expert Marianne van Lochem told them, while explaining what was happening. Around one o’clock in the afternoon, the sound of applause filled the construction site. The giant concrete slabs were finally in place: Early Monday morning, 23 August: the platform was almost back to its original position.

mission accomplished.

Building The Future

The concrete colossus moving towards the platform.

The tracks being removed during the night.

NEW LINK FOR ZUIDAS LOOP SYSTEM The concrete structures on the left had to be moved to the platform on the right.

Spectators enjoyed the show!

Anyone looking east beyond Gustav Mahlerlaan will see

Cables and pipelines in the ground can be a significant

a trench, 10 metres wide and 5 metres deep, running

cause of disruptions and nuisance. Their construction

alongside the Valley building. This is a new link in the

and maintenance cause inconvenience (streets have to be

Groundwork

on-site. The concrete sections were

Seven sections

planned loop system around Zuidas. “We’ll be creating

dug up) and there are routine problems during excavation

Initial work started on the evening of

laid between the metro tracks, which

The Brittenpassage will be the

some kind of lasagna here.”

works (gas leaks, power outages). That’s why an alternative

Thursday 19 August. Platform 4 and

left hardly any space to give them the

second pedestrian passageway

the adjacent metro platform were

first push. ‘Mini-grippers’ were installed

underneath the new Amsterdam

This is quite an impressive trench. At the bottom are nine

network in which all the main conduits are positioned neatly

closed to all rail traffic and the tracks

to move the roof sections the first few

Zuid station, with trains and metros

neatly lined-up bundles, each containing four sections of

alongside each other, with a limited number of gigantic

were removed along with part of the

centimetres. Almost imperceptibly,

running overhead. It should be

sleeve pipe ducting bound together. “This is the lowest

connector blocks (‘coupling fields’) to connect residential

platform. After that, approximately

the long concrete sections inched

completed by 2027 at the latest. So,

layer”, says project manager Jeroen Plug. “We’ll be creating

neighbourhoods or office complexes. If work is being done in

2,000 cubic metres of sand, which the

their way forward.

there’s still a long way to go. The

some kind of lasagna here. On top of this first layer, there will

an area, the City Council comes in and adds another piece to

new passageway will do more than

be another five of ducting, with layers of sand in between.

the loop. A similar tunnel of pipes and cables was laid under

Suspended

just provide access to the station

All in all, around 90 km of empty ducting will go into the

Gustav Mahlerlaan back in 2005, for example, and under

With slightly more space to work

platforms – it will also accommodate

trench, which is several hundred metres in length. At a later

Beatrixpark and Prinses Irenestraat since 2016.

First push

in, now the ‘big guns’ could be

shops and a bicycle parking facility.

stage, network operators such as KPN and Liander will run

By Saturday morning, everything was

deployed. Progress was slow for

Three of the roof sections are now in

electricity wires and glass fibre cables through the ducting.

In just a few weeks’ time, Liander plans to run all the

ready for the final push. The main

the first three metres, but suddenly

place, which leaves four more to go.

These are the main conduits that will become part of a large,

electricity cables from the A10 to Valley, filling the empty

challenge was the very limited space

the pace quickened.

new loop system around Zuidas.”

ducting for the very first time.

tracks normally rest on, was removed by lorries.

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

solution has been devised for Zuidas: a loop-shaped

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

Building The future

Social Media

SOCIAL MEDIA

February 2020

@corporatehousingfactory Behind the scenes, shooting for

AN AMBITIOUS PROJECT

@tegenstroom83

an upcoming interview...

Peakz Padel Zuidas @you.art.great Architecture is one of my favorites

The renovation of Tripolis Park at the edge of Zuidas certainly qualifies as an ambitious project. The three existing skyscraper – will form a bridge between two of the three towers. This will ensure that architect Aldo van Eyck’s design

ON THESE ONLINE PLATFORMS

philosophy is preserved, while also creating more office space. Work on the third tower, currently leased to Nikon, giant Uber, which is basing its international headquarters on the business campus.

📸

YOU CAN FIND

towers in the iconic complex must stay intact. A completely new building – the spectacular landscraper, a horizontal

will happen at a later stage. This tower will have apartments in it. Among the tenants of Tripolis Park will soon be tech

@amsterdaminpixels

@agnethepostema

hellozuidas

@oxxbucks ... the best Ceaser you’ve

@HelloZuidas

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@hellozuidas

😋

@portfoliocelinakalx

Back to business

@zomerschoolamsterdam

Sunset over the Business-

For employees of

June 2021

companies who are member of Hello Zuidas,

it is possible to join our LinkedIn group or link

as a contact.

@aby_hartog

@market33zuidas

quarter of Amsterdam

DOWNLOAD THE HELLO ZUIDAS CITY APP Hello Zuidas has an @hoomanchan @sangrecaliente2021

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Cant believe I did this again.

Find out more by opening this folding page

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

#manifestofenough

@maniesha.b_ The week is yours. own it.

app that allows you to

... ook wel de betonnen wijk

flip through all the

genoemd... maar toch is de

Zuidas news!

architektuur opvallend...

Column

COLUMN

EMPATHY When a child watches the classic film Bambi, the outcome is predictable. At the very moment sweet, young, vulnerable Bambi hears his mother is dead, most children cry. And should you ask them, in that moment, if they would be prepared to give away their favourite toy, my guess is that a surprisingly large number would say yes. Empathy is a very powerful emotion. Empathy is all around us. A film that does not activate our empathy would never come close to winning any awards. Our capacity to instantly feel what others feel, their suffering and their joy, is what draws us into theatres, fully prepared to empathize with the good protagonist. While intense, empathy is also a fleeting emotion. It is easily activated, but hardly ever for long. Even the daily news broadcasts, which we tend to accept as among the most objective and fact-focused programmes on TV, often activate empathy. But after empathizing with a giant panda or a hungry child in need, our thoughts quickly bounce back to the here and now. Such as: I feel like a cup of coffee. In the past six months, our empathy has probably been activated most often by vivid closeup shots of a needle being jabbed into somebody’s upper arm. That’s the defining visual for

Paul van Lange (1961) is Professor and Chair of Social Psychology at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Distinguished Research Fellow at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on the psychology and evolution of human cooperation as well as the psychology of climate change, trust, and norm-violation in society. After serving as coach of male and female teams at AFC and SC Buitenveldert, he also publishes on the psychology of football. www.paulvanlange.com

vaccination. But what does it do to us, when we watch this? Clearly, it activates empathy. You can almost feel the pain yourself. Yet, in the absence of a face (or at least a face we know) it also activates other emotions. A needle also arouses anxiety. I realize that television needs visuals to accompany abstract words. But there are limits: Why do we need images of needles penetrating upper arms? And why over and over again? I have little problem giving blood, but I never watch the needle going into my arm. Needles aren’t shown on television because programme directors are out to cause anxiety. It is because it’s a golden rule, and a very strong convention, to present visuals. And, sure, I can understand the need to show needles every now and then, but why so often? Some people are hesitant about getting vaccinated, believing it can cause negative side-effects or long-term health risks. The visualization of needles, over and over again, may well strengthen such hesitations. There is nothing wrong with being cautious, especially not if it’s based on incomplete knowledge. But it is a shame if the vaccination rate is undermined by the power of visuals. I wish television directors would stop administering a daily dose of needles. A weekly dose will do. Even if it has no impact on willingness to get vaccinated, just watching all those jabs is off-putting enough. We don’t need to be exposed to it every day. We want our normal lives back – without a daily dose of needles.

EVERY BODY HAS A STORY

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Hello People

HELLO PEOPLE

GOT A MINUTE?

Zuidas is a place where change is constant. From its beginnings as a financial district, it’s gradually diversifying into a mixedpurpose work, residential and leisure location. As this issue is shining a spotlight on Living & Lifestyle, for this section we headed out to ask: What are the perceptions about Zuidas nowadays as a place to live? Your answers couldn’t have been more diverse.

Linda Helsloot Greenberg Staffing “I’m from Amsterdam myself, so of course the region is fantastic. Still, I work in Zuidas, at the WTC, so it’s not all that appealing for me personally to come live here. I prefer to keep those two things separated. Given the housing shortage, though, it’s terrific how much interest there is in building new homes here. And for many people this is a good option. The apartments in the buildings on Gustav Mahlerlaan are amazing. It’s tough to say specifically what would add that spark. Once you get more small businesses and they draw in more people – that will make it a more fun place to live. That’s one thing in Zuidas that can still improve.”

Hello People

Tunahan Student “As a visitor here, it feels like a straight-up corporate environment to me. Which means I don’t immediately see myself living here. As for me personally, I need to live somewhere quiet. I’ve heard Zuidas is a different place during evenings and weekends compare to how it is during the daytime, so that would be a plus. Also, Amsterdam’s such a great city: it’s always fun and busy, but that’s also why it’s not my ideal place to live.”

Carlijn Bos Deloitte “I switch between working at our offices in Zuidas and Rotterdam, but I live in Den Bosch. As it happens, I drove to work today, instead of taking the train, and was struck by how beautiful all the homes are here. Because of that quality, I can definitely see the appeal of living in Zuidas. It’s also great to see how the urban element is being broken up with more green spaces, like the green lawns here on Gustav Mahlerplein and hanging baskets everywhere. All that makes it a much more attractive place to live.”

Marcel de Lyon Lyon Office Support “If it were up to me, I could happily move to Zuidas. All the building developments in recent years have really balanced the workingliving dynamic. I live in the south at the moment, and with our office being in the WTC, it would save loads of travel time. So, maybe one day... The other really important thing is having nice neighbours. In the end, when it comes to living somewhere, they make all the difference. And theoretically you can have that anywhere. Beyond that, thoughtful architecture, enough planting and sport facilities are very important to me. And, let’s not forget: nice bars and restaurants. Zuidas has all that.”

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

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Interview

HELLO ZUIDAS INTRODUCES

TREVOR HOLTKAMP Community Manager

fiction (ask me about history facts, I know many). I enjoy both reading and writing them. I would say storytelling is my greatest feat. And storytelling comes in many forms. Articles, essays, visuals, video, you name Trevor Holtkamp

it. Though the end crowns the work for me, when other people are involved. Connecting with others is something I live for. Because

Trevor, could you tell us

like Power Grid, Wingspan and D&D. Within

interactions bring joy to life and make life

something about yourself?

that last category, I write my own (fantasy)

interesting. I follow the vision of Homo

I am 28 years old and was born and raised in

stories as well.

Ludens, a.k.a. the ‘playing human’, after

Almere. Before joining Hello Zuidas, I was a

the book written by the philosopher Johan

marketer in IT. And before that, I worked in

What is your biggest challenge in this job?

Huizinga. Life is a game; it is up to you how

customer services in the finance sector. This

Being a Community Manager at Hello Zuidas

to play it.

also means my job at Hello Zuidas is not my

means working in a high-end environment

first in Zuidas. Since 2021, I have been the

with lots of different environmental,

Is there anything else you would like to

Community Manager at Hello Zuidas. I am

economic and political challenges. And next

share with readers of Hello Zuidas?

responsible for all of our communication

to the monthly routines, equally challenging

Starting a job like this, at a time like this,

channels, including our website, app, social

projects. It is those challenges and projects

is strange. Luckily, times are changing. I

media and magazine. I am also the project

that make my job interesting, intriguing, and

look forward to meeting all of you at our

manager for Sustainability and secretary for

exciting. As someone who likes a challenge,

wonderful Zuidas. I am always happy to

our Horeca & Retail platform.

is a persistent go-getter and has a busy

meet you and talk about how Hello Zuidas

social life, this job is the percent fit I have

can help you achieve your goals. You can

been looking for.

reach me at: news@hellozuidas.com.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? Next to my job at Hello Zuidas, I am also involved in local politics. Since 2018, I have

What do you look forward

been the secretary of D66 Almere. In terms

to in the time ahead?

of hobbies, I like to play (next level) board

From a very young age, I was always

games. Not the Monopoly type, but games

interested in stories, both fiction and non-

Photography: Caily Bobby Jo

Hello Zuidas Trevor Holtkamp Off on Wednesdays Strawinskylaan 61 1077 XW Amsterdam +31 (0) 20 333 74 41 +31 (0) 6 22 33 46 11 news@hellozuidas.com

Property

PROPERTY

ZUIDAS: MIXED-USE URBAN COMMUNITY IN AMSTERDAM The housing shortage in the Netherlands has long been a pressing issue. That’s especially true in Amsterdam, which is hard at work to build enough affordable and sustainable homes, also in Zuidas. This process is transforming Zuidas from a location known mostly as a business district to a mixed-use urban community in Amsterdam. Reina van Grondelle, the municipality’s principal urban planner for Zuidas, explains why residential development is so vital for this area, and how it boosts local quality of life.

Property

Prinses Amaliaplein

Living in Zuidas

Interesting and dynamic

Part of the city

Between now and 2025, some 1,700

There is a persistent idea that Zuidas

Access to enough amenities nearby

new homes will be built in Zuidas,

wasn’t originally planned to be a mixed-

is a factor that can make or break

with another 6,000 to follow in the

use urban district. But that’s not true: “The

an urban residential location, Reina

years immediately after 2025. This

first Master Plan for Zuidas drafted in 1998

knows. Residents of Zuidas can find

will bring the total number of homes

already provided for a mixed programme

a growing range of essentials in their

in Zuidas to nearly 10,000. Most

of residential units, with a share for lower

own neighbourhood, but there is still

will be concentrated in Ravel, the

incomes, plus workplaces and amenities.

much to be gained. “We are working

Knowledge Quarter and Verdi, forming

This premise never changed. In addition to

hard on a full range of amenities, with

mixed neighbourhoods with offices

social rental housing, the 2016 Vision for

shops, restaurants, schools, care

and amenities. Overall, 40% of this

Zuidas also provided for mid-range units.”

facilities and cultural venues. To give

housing stock will be social rentals,

According to Reina, a mixed city has places

an example, in the second half of 2022,

40% mid-range and 20% private sector

that are used by a wide range of people

the conservatory is opening a satellite

housing. Offering a diverse range of

for a variety of reasons and at different

in the historic Kapel & Convict buildings

residential options is a must for every

times, creating an interesting and dynamic

in Beatrixpark.” Zuidas has undergone

neighbourhood in Amsterdam, stresses

urban space. “Balancing crowded and quiet

tremendous development since the

Reina van Grondelle. “We’re shaping

spaces are also always part of that. A good

first plans were laid for this district.

communities that fit with Amsterdam’s

illustration is Prinses Amaliaplein (Vijfhoek),

“Creating whole new urban districts

tradition of mixed neighbourhoods.

where you’ve got children playing,

is a long process, but ultimately

Everyone in Amsterdam should be

passengers waiting for buses and office

Zuidas should become a natural and

able to live in Zuidas, regardless of

workers on their lunch breaks all creating

integral part of the city of Amsterdam;

income, education, age or household

a pleasant buzz.” Residents play a key role

physically linked to the surrounding

composition. That’s why it is so

in the development of Zuidas, she adds.

area, connected to the residents and

important that the municipality

“They feel attached to their homes and

users of adjacent neighbourhoods, and

is making space for social and

add colour to the neighbourhood. We’re

with the hub around Amsterdam Zuid

mid-range rental as well as private

pleased with the pace at which housing

station forming one of the city’s main

sector housing.”

production is progressing in Zuidas now.”

new centres.”

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Jan Vonk & Marcel Steinbach

Starting school is a big step in your child’s life. Let’s take that step together. Spaces still available for 2021/22. britishschool.amsterdam +31 (0) 20 67 97 840

Hello Zuidas

VIEW FROM VALLEY OVER THE HEART OF ZUIDAS

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

Finance

FINANCE

HOLLAND METROPOLE AND THE RESIDENTIAL A big current trending topic in the Dutch property sector is how to tackle major forthcoming residential projects. That’s a question Holland Metropole – a coalition of the country’s five largest cities and metro regions with leading Dutch real estate developers and investors – is working to answer. Erik-Jan van Kempen (programme director of Spatial and Environmental Planning at the Dutch Ministry of the Interior) and Dick van Hal (CEO of Bouwinvest) stress the need for public-private cooperation as they reflect on the past and look at what’s ahead. What actions are needed? And who should take the next step? Ambitions to eliminate the Dutch housing

chance if public and private partners join

have successfully borne fruit in urban

shortage in ten years’ time present a major

forces. The Netherlands have a long-

renewal and suburban developments

challenge. And one that only stands a

standing tradition of such alliances, which

(notably ‘Vinex’ districts). The whole country

Finance

BUILDING CHALLENGE has benefited. Now, with a new generation

investors and other private partners at

augmentation, certainly not about putting

of urban centres on the horizon, it makes

the trade fairs in Munich (Expo Real) and

up fences. This will take some careful

sense to build on that existing foundation.

Cannes (Mipim). Van Hal: “We couldn’t act

balancing, both in the metropolitan region

on it last year, but we did consult online

but also and especially outside it. Finding

That’s where Holland Metropole comes in.

about our three core aims: liveability,

the right solution is something the whole

Several years ago the cities of Amsterdam,

affordability and accessibility. If we are

country has to do together. That’s also

The Hague, Eindhoven, Rotterdam

to achieve these ambitions as a whole,

why it makes sense to approach this as a

and Utrecht decided to present a joint

everyone needs to step up to the plate.”

network of cities.”

delegation with developers, institutional

Van Kempen agrees: “The bar is high. We need to build 900,000 homes as a basis for

Calls to build, build, build are

spatial planning in and around cities, while

sounding from all sides. What do you

fully integrating aims of climate adaptation

think? Is it that simple?

and nature-inclusive construction. I think it

Van Kempen: “Interest rates are low, prices

can be done. The Netherlands are a terrific

are soaring. So things are tense. At the

country; a country made by human hands.

moment it’s very hard to find a starter

That’s why we should be looking ahead to

home, for example. We’re seeing a housing

not only the next ten years, but beyond.”

crunch, and that’s worrying. We can’t control interest rates, but we can do more

The Netherlands are heading for a

to influence building production.”

massive spatial transition in the next

Van Hal: “Adding the right housing stock

ten years. Are we prepared?

can break the deadlock. Say, from public

Van Hal: “I think the National Strategy on

rental housing to mid-sector rental.

Spatial Planning and the Environment

Or moving seniors from too-large homes

(NOVI) is a good place to start. It brings all

to apartments that can be modified

the dimensions together. We have taken a

over time.”

next step already with the designation of

Van Kempen: “Yes, but that last can be very

14 regions we want to focus on together.

tricky and too few projects are actually

We have a direction. It’s also clear that we’ll

getting off the ground.”

be building both within and outside cities.

Van Hal: “It’s not only about quantity, but

Holland Metropole has already indicated

also the quality of housing, and a good

we want to preserve the ‘Green Heart’ of

match with future demand. If you want to

the country, not to build it up, because it’s

encourage seniors to move, you’ve got to

what makes this region unique.”

have attractive options for them. There’s a good reason many institutional investors

Van Kempen: “We have to do more than just protect the Green Heart; it’s about preservation through development. About

are honing in on this group.”

Read the full article on: www.bouwinvest.nl/hollandmetropole

Agenda

AGENDA

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2021 2-12 September

AMSTERDAM FRINGE FESTIVAL 2021 @Amsterdam – www.amsterdamfringefestival.nl This September, the Amsterdam Fringe Festival brings 11 days of live theatre, dance, music, performance and experimental productions to small stages and unexpected locations all across Amsterdam. The event will comply with the latest RIVM (Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) guidelines, but is guaranteed 1 July – 17 October

to be as Fringeworthy as ever!

AMSTERDAM SCULPTURE BIENNIAL – ARTZUID @Zuidas – www.artzuid.nl The Art Zuid foundation will be hosting the 7th edition of ARTZUID, the Amsterdam Sculpture Biennial, in Zuidas and along Minervalaan, Apollolaan, Churchilllaan and Museumplein. Rolling out a green carpet from Zuidas to the city centre, the sculpture route connects different neighbourhoods and residents across more than 60 locations, where artists from all continents present work based on the curator’s artistic concept. Thursdays from 2 September

Monday 6 September & 11 October

NEW: ZUIDAS WEEKLY MARKET

SPEED DATING [33-45 & 25-38]

@Gershwinplein – www.zuidasmarkt.nl

@Restaurant à Deauville – www.aboutlove.nl

Starting from 2 September 2021, every

During these speed dates you’ll meet 15-

Thursday is market day in Zuidas! Up to

20 other singles. Every four minutes, the

30 stalls will set up on Gershwinplein to

bell sounds and half the singles move up

sell their fresh wares, with a focus on food.

a table, putting a different person across

Having a farmers’ market has been a long-

from you until you’ve met them all. After

held dream of Zuidas residents, and now,

each date, tick on the form whether you

thanks to the Zuid district executive board,

want to get better acquainted: Yes or No?

that dream is coming true.

Agenda

Tuesday 14 September

MEMBERS ONLY: HELLO ZUIDAS MEETS ARTZUID & THOMASKERK Starts @Thomaskerk Hello Zuidas is pleased to invite members to enjoy a guided tour of the ARTZUID route on Tuesday 14 September, from 3.45pm to 6.45pm. We’ll set out from the Thomaskerk in small groups to see the sculptures, and re-join for drinks at CIRCL from 5.30pm to 6pm, weather permitting. Sign up by email to: news@hellozuidas.com. 8-12 September

KUNSTRAI @Amsterdam RAI – www.kunstrai.nl The longest-running contemporary art fair in the Netherlands, KunstRAI is where art connoisseurs and art lovers go to see – and buy – the best and newest pieces. Besides galleries, the fair also features solo stands showcasing individual artists and

17-19 September

acquainting visitors with their work.

MUZE VAN ZUID 2021 @Amsterdam Zuid – www.muzevanzuid.nl Great news: Muze van Zuid is back – in real life! This year’s event features 24 different concerts by over 100 top musicians, 15 musical walks with guides or podcasts, and 4 street safaris with amateur chamber music ensembles, all presenting works by more than 30 Dutch composers, including 5 world premières. The festival covers a wide spectrum of musical styles, from gamelan to string quartet and from fanfare band to piano, cello, lute and clarinet.

10 September

Tuesday 14 September, 4-5pm

ZUIDAS BUSINESSRIDE

CIRCULAR ENTERPRISE: WTF #1

@Zuidas – www.inactievoorwereldouders.nl

@CIRCL – www.circl.nl

/evenement/zuidas-businessride-2021

What obstacles are blocking your business or organization on

Start your weekend with some action and join

the path toward a circular economy? In this programme we’ll be

the Zuidas Businessride with your colleagues on

joined by an expert to discuss obstacle #1: perverse incentives.

Friday 10 September, organized by WereldOuders,

For companies doing business today, there are no financial

Eurest, Kras Sport and Reessjurts. This road

incentives to transition to circularity. Rather, ecological and

bike tour (40, 60 and 80 km) starts and finishes

social incentives are meant to compensate the negative financial

in Zuidas. Food and drinks will be provided

incentive, giving business owners little motivation to trade in the

afterwards! Take the challenge and register now.

trusted old linear model for an unfamiliar circular one.

Agenda

19 September

AMSTERDAMSE BOS: PURE MARKT @Boswinkel Amsterdamse Bos

Thursday 14 & 21 October

– www.amsterdamsebos.nl

BUSINESS ENGLISH WORKSHOP

Pure Markt is coming to Amsterdamse Bos again this year!

@Taalcentrum-VU – www.taalcentrum-vu.nl

This market features all pure products, sold by producers

English fluency is crucial in international

themselves. They can tell you everything about the

business. Would you like to communicate

ingredients, origins and production processes. There’s also

more effectively with your English-speaking

a great range of one-of-a-kind non-food items. The market

clients? Taalcentrum-VU’s language experts are here

is free to visit. Pure Markt is held at various fixed locations in

to help! Our Business English workshop will boost your

Amsterdam and other alternating locations in the Netherlands.

fluency in no time. The workshop covers two full days,

Schedule subject to change.

from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

3 October, 2-3.30pm

GUIDED TOURS OF BEATRIXPARK: TREE TRAIL Starts @Boerenweteringpad park entrance Every first Sunday of the month, Henk Wolters takes visitors on a tour of Beatrixpark. This time, two tour guides take you along the park’s tree trail. Beatrixpark is home to some 250 different tree species. Every season offers something special to discover.

Thursday 21 October, 1-2.30pm

In spring, buds, catkins, flowers, pollination and sprouting

BEETHOVENSTRAAT WALK

leaves, in autumn the changing colours, leaffall, fruits and

Starts @Beethovenstraat & Gerrit van der

seeds, and in winter hibernation, silhouettes, shoots, conifers

Veenstraat intersection – www.hetschip.nl

and other evergreens.

The bustling Beethovenstraat

Photo: Jan Vonk

neighbourhood is also a mecca for the Amsterdam School. Renowned architects such as Rutgers, Kramer and Wijdeveld, as well as the ‘godfather’ of the Amsterdam

26-28 October

School, Eduard Cuypers, created public

PROVADA 2021

housing, public works and private projects

@Amsterdam RAI – www.rai.nl

here that are notable for their beauty.

This October, PROVADA returns to

From working class homes to exclusive

Amsterdam RAI for three whole days. Having

mansions, all were designed and built

waited so long, we are very excited for

with the same attention to detail. This

this new edition. PROVADA expects to go

guided walk takes a closer look at both the

ahead as normal, with no restrictions and

architecture and the many other art forms

approximately the same visitor volumes. We

connected with the Amsterdam School.

hope to see you there in October!

Photo: Het Schip

Agenda

AGENDA

8 october 2021

MEMBERS MEETING @ NU BUILDING Discover all the facilities that VU Amsterdam’s New University (NU) Building in Zuidas has to offer! During this Members Meeting, Hello Zuidas members will be treated to an exclusive sneak peek of both the new Rialto cinema and the Griffioen theatre. The afternoon will

kick off with a short film to celebrate the cinema’s inauguration, followed by a spectacular theatrical production in Griffioen’s auditorium (also the building’s largest space). Before and after both shows there will be time to look around the impressive NU atrium, whose high ceilings and expansive windows create a dazzling play of light and spaciousness.

We cordially invite all members to VU’s New University Building on 8 October at 3pm. The short film and theatre show will run until approximately 5pm, after which we plan to gather for drinks. We hope you will join us to celebrate the opening of these exciting new venues!

Xxx And Lifestyle Special Living

SPECIAL

LIVING lifestyle ISSUE

This issue’s special feature on living and lifestyle spotlights various organizations involved in the latest developments and a wide variety of services in Zuidas. Check out the following organizations and get yourself, your business partners and colleagues up to speed on new residential projects. And get a lifestyle boost with our top tips to update yourself and your surroundings: De Hypotheker Zuidas, The Mayor, De Connectie, Von Poll Real Estate, Corporate Housing Factory, Aan Het IJ, Kalter&Kalter and De Match Maker

Sandra Risseeuw is an architect with her own firm, SA DESIGN Architecture, established in 1998. She has a flair for giving existing homes, education and office spaces a new look and also designs detailed interior furnishings. In all her projects, she strives to create

If there is one theme that has been on many people’s minds this past year, it’s

sustainable, future-ready interiors and

homes, living and lifestyle. These things were always important, but garnered

furniture. This is her unique selling

more attention while we were all stuck at home and had to realign our time.

point and specialization. Since starting

The housing market and everything involved with it also continues to be a hot

out, Sandra has gained wide-ranging

topic. How much are houses going for? Where are new building projects going

experience doing healthy and circular

up? But also: How can you make your interior work for you? And how to create

renovations and interior designs. It is

a space that suits your lifestyle? We’ve all come up against these questions at

with her story that we open another fun

some point in our daily routines. In this issue, we feature some of the people and

and multifaceted feature, this time all

businesses active in different varieties of this theme.

about living and lifestyle.

Living And Lifestyle Special Xxx

Sandra, could you tell us more about yourself? ‘’I always wanted to make things better and more beautifiul. That’s the reason I became an architect and also why I work on circular construction: for a better world. Due to personal physical limitations, I’m also more focused on accessibility and the health side of things. I’ve lived in Amsterdam Zuid for over twenty years and have followed developments in Zuidas during that time, starting with a traineeship at an architectural firm, where I copied

On this photo Sandra reused two

ground plan blueprints for the WTC onto a

Bruynzeel kitchen cabinets. In the

computer.’’

background you can see loam plaster with an anthracite grey finish. Loam

What’s the focus of your firm,

is a versatile material, and good for

SA DESIGN Architectuur?

a healthy indoor climate. The carpet consists of unfixed Wae tiles made of

‘’I specialize in designing healthy and circular buildings. For schools, I work

Sandra Risseeuw

remainder carpet tiles. The table was made from an old inside door.

with Inside Options, where our aim is maximum engagement of pupils, teachers and parents. I also work with the WELL Building Standard and other guidelines for

and easily adaptable to everyone’s

public spaces in Zuidas that were not, or

healthy buildings.’’

preferences. For the right indoor climate, I

were yet to be realized. Such as Mud House

would opt for a smart ventilation system,

– a loam tower 12 metres tall. And there’s a

How do ‘living and lifestyle’

bio-based thermal insulation and lovely,

design meant to inject meaning in the grey

converge in your work?

non-toxic materials that enhance the air

Beethovenstraat viaduct, called ‘Under

‘’A healthy lifestyle tends to help

quality and character. As far as construction

the Rainbow’. During the recession, I was

people feel better. And a healthy living

goes, the pleasant home of the future is

also involved in the Flying Amsterdam plan,

environment is a part of that. People

also circular. The big advantage is that

which was about temporarily parking old

spend eighty per cent of their time indoors,

it makes future renovations easier and

aircrafts in vacant lots in Zuidas.’’

which means we’re breathing indoor air 19

wastes less material. With circular building,

hours a day. So, if you’re using unhealthy

everything is removable. Bio-based

Is there anything else you’d like to

materials and not ventilating properly,

materials are used wherever possible.

share with readers of Hello Zuidas?

you’re breathing in all kinds of nasty stuff

The circular economy also has loads of

‘’I was really surprised by how Covid

like moulds, viruses and particulates –

potential, in that materials and parts don’t

suddenly transformed our homes into

from cooking, or candles – or not getting

have to come from far away, but can be

offices, restaurants and nightclubs. That’s

enough oxygen, which can cause various

reused from other nearby buildings.’’

sure to have implications: How will we recreate the comforts of home back at

symptoms. As an architect, I can provide brand-independent advice to ensure

What are some of the projects

our offices in Zuidas? Will we need to take

buildings are not only attractive, but also

you’re currently working on

power naps there, too? And shouldn’t

healthy inside.’’

in and around Zuidas?

restaurants have acoustics that are as good

‘’Right now, I’m working on two schools

as we have at home? I hope that future

What do you need for a pleasant home?

for which we’re doing circular, healthy

transformations will be based on circularity

‘’My ideal home is as healthy inside as it is

interiors. Regrettably, though, neither is

and a healthy indoor climate. That way, we

out. Also, it’s oriented outside, comfortable

near Zuidas. I have done some projects for

can keep Zuidas a great place to live.’’

Text: Céline Boute

Living And Lifestyle Special

ZUIDAS HOME TOUR

“Looking at Zuidas from my terrace is like watching a play”

Zuidas is a distinctive part of the city and in high demand among

we ask residents to tell us where they live and how they like life in

house hunters. Between now and 2040, some 8,000 to 9,000

Zuidas. This time, we talked to Eva Lindfors, who lives in Xavier.

new homes will be built here. Once known mostly as an office

After leaving her native Finland as a teenager, Eva fell in love with

location, more recently Zuidas has been shedding that image in a

our country of tulips and windmills. In 2015 she saw an ad in Hello

complete metamorphosis. When Zuidas is finished in around 2040,

Zuidas magazine for the Town House project in Zuidas. Two years

a projected 15,000 people will call it home. In this new section,

later, she and her family moved here, and she has no plans to leave.

Eva Lindfors lives in Xavier

Living And Lifestyle Special

Eva, had you ever imagined living in Zuidas, before this? “When we arrived here, it was a bit of a fluke. My ex worked here, but it had never actually occurred to us as a place to live. That’s because of the strong business image the district had in 2015. Without discussing it, I’d put our names down for the Town House project, thinking it was a long shot. But, miraculously, we got a house. In the end, I’m very happy we seized that opportunity to pack up from suburban Amstelveen and come to live in Amsterdam.” Have you put down permanent roots here? “When I was house-hunting again, I looked at everything on the buyer’s market. Secretly, though, I was hoping for something in Xavier, because I watched as it was going up. It has bag loads of character. It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole district. I’ll certainly stay as long as the kids are still living at home, so at least another five or six years. I’ve not given any thought to what happens after that. This location is great. It has the perfect combination of shops, people, restaurants and other things to do, plus the peace and quiet at weekends.” What do you like best about living in Zuidas? “I love walking around the area. Of course, with our dog, Bobby,

Name

I do a lot of that. It’s helped me get to know other residents out

Building Xavier

walking their dogs. The little squares and all the green spaces make

Hobbies Travel, reading (especially anything design-related)

it into a nice neighbourhood. Often, I sit on the balcony and just

Eva Lindfors, interior designer at Matter of Space

and walking with our dog Bobby

watch what’s going on in the centre of Zuidas. It’s so nice to see people socializing, now that bars and cafés are open again.”

Favourite spot at home My terrace and my sofa. From there I can see Zuidas and

Is there anything still missing here?

enjoy taking it all in. Thanks to my view of the A10 and George

“To start, there’s no place for locals to walk their dogs. Also, it

Gershwinplein, I always have the scoop whenever anything

would be so nice to connect with other residents. I haven’t seen

happens. The sun is shining, pavement cafés are back in business

that yet in Xavier. Everyone’s friendly and says hi, but I would like

and I have a front-row seat. It’s like being a spectator at a play.

to get to know people by organizing drinks or a barbecue in our courtyard. And George Gershwinplein would be a great spot to

Favourite spot in Zuidas

organize something for everyone living in Zuidas. An event to bring

Club Sportive, Doppio’s outdoor tables for work and coffee, and

us all together. Let’s get to know each other!”

Total4Living on Gelderlandplein for inspiration and collaboration.

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

Living And Lifestyle Special

Thomas van Splunteren

“TO BUY A HOME HERE, YOU HAVE TO ACT FAST” Are you a homeowner looking to buy a new place in the Zuidas area? Then no doubt

new house in Zuidas. Once you’ve found it,

you’ve discovered this is not something you can just sort out on a spare Saturday.

you can make a solid offer straight away.

“Ninety per cent of homes around here are sold without a financing condition”,

In fact, you may just get it all sorted on a

Thomas van Splunteren of De Hypotheker says. “So, if you don’t act incredibly fast,

spare Saturday after all.

you’ll miss out.” Accelerate your house-hunt De Hypotheker is ready to strike fast

to buy, we draw up your whole file.” First,

Thomas sees this approach pay off daily.

“The bottleneck in the current market

De Hypotheker Zuidas sits down with

“We’re very successful in what we do. At De

is finding a new place, especially in a

clients to review their wish list and what

Hypotheker, we can do a lot and we can

desirable location like this”, Thomas says.

the possibilities are. The advisor will look at

do it fast, which is crucial just now. Plus,

By comparison, “Selling is usually a piece of

what kind of home you’re looking for, how

because we work with all lenders, we can

cake.” For clients looking to purchase a new

the sale of your current home is coming

offer bespoke service at speed.”

property, he and his team work to ensure

along and what your mortgage options

they are ready to strike fast.

are. This provides a much more concrete

Make an appointment with Thomas or his

and accurate picture than any online tool

colleagues any time for the best chance at

Apply first, then offer

ever could. Moreover, it gives you a head

buying your dream home in Zuidas!

“Basically, we’ve turned the normal order

start in the mortgage application process,

of things around”, Thomas explains. “Even

by taking care of all possible steps in

before you’ve settled on a specific place

advance. All that’s left is honing in on your

Photography: Jaiwey Nuij

De Hypotheker amsterdam1135@hypotheker.nl + 31 (0)20 662 14 11

Living And Lifestyle Special

FROM OFFICE TO HIGH-END LIVING

In Amstelveen, new-build project The Mayor is rapidly taking

Doing business runs in the blood

shape, transforming the former KPMG premises into luxury

The Mayor is one of the latest of the Warmenhuizen-based firm’s

apartments. Construction company and developer M.J. De Nijs en

many prestigious projects. M.J. De Nijs en Zonen were also

Zonen signed on for the challenge of converting the former office

behind the restoration of Amsterdam’s old tram depot, now De

into penthouses, apartments and garden apartments. So, who are

Hallen, and Hermitage museum, as well as the construction of

M.J. De Nijs en Zonen, and what makes this project special?

the Eye Filmuseum. Doing business runs in their blood. Owned

Living And Lifestyle Special

IN LUXURIOUS THE MAYOR and operated by the De Nijs family for 100

challenge and are currently converting the

morning and sends you off to sleep at night.

years, this is a real family firm with a board

office block into new residential buildings

The bedrooms and the spacious living room

of directors still made up of members of

with luxury penthouses, apartments and

with open-plan kitchen have sliding doors

the De Nijs family. All are closely involved

garden apartments.

giving onto an outdoor terrace. Welcome

in the company’s projects, and that makes

home to the ultimate freedom. Where you

it a great place to work, project developer

“This project is really a perfect match with

can get away from it all, entertain friends

Eltjo Hamster affirms.

De Nijs’ vision,” Eltjo Hamster explains.

and celebrate life – every day!

Known for their work on urban and often From office block to apartments

complex projects, “these kinds of logistical

M-Exclusive

The company also loves a challenge. You

puzzles are an adventure for us, so it came

M-Exclusive makes living in The Mayor even

won’t find them planting production-line

as no surprise that this was a project De

more comfortable and convenient, with

houses in pastures. Because M.J. De Nijs en

Nijs were keen to sink their teeth into.”

a range of facilities and services tailored

Zonen are all about sustainable building.

for and provided exclusively to residents.

They’re best known for construction

Luxury penthouses and apartments

Already planned are a gym and coffee

and renovation projects in and around

The penthouses and apartments offer up

corner, as well as arrangements for parcel

Amsterdam – projects that tend to unfold

to 212m² of unparalleled luxury. And a

delivery, dry cleaning and taxi services.

on construction sites where space is tight.

blank canvas for the first residents, as units

Uniquely, the building will have its own

can be configured and furnished to suit

concierge. They will greet your guests upon

your taste.

request and look after your apartment

The Mayor is such a site. Originally built as an office, the property was completed

while you’re away or on holiday. Need a

in 1991, but wound up vacant after just 18

Come for a viewing, and you’ll be amazed

child-minder at the last minute? Have the

years. It was never leased again and the

at the vast windows that seem to dissolve

concierge take care of for you.

building has been tenantless since 2009.

the division between inside and outside

M.J. De Nijs en Zonen signed on for the

space. A phenomenal view greets you every

Picturing yourself living luxuriously in Amstelveen? Visit the website: www.woneninthemayor.nl

Stijlvol wonen in Amstelveen

140 huurappartementen met parkeerplaats 55 m2 - 95m2 Start verhuur vanaf 15 oktober 2021 Verwachte oplevering april 2022

wonenindeconnectie.nl

Living And Lifestyle Special

VON POLL REAL ESTATE

Fresh and fast-growing property player As a specialist in Amsterdam’s private residential market, VON POLL REAL ESTATE is a fresh and fast-growing property player, focusing on selling, buying and rentals. Thanks to that rapid expansion, in 2018 VON POLL REAL ESTATE opened a second branch in Zuidas, in addition to its main office in the heart of Amsterdam. Customer-focused

client is a unique individual with their own

The team

residential estate agents

wishes and interests.

The team behind VON POLL REAL ESTATE

The VON POLL REAL ESTATE team is a group

consists of highly trained estate agents with

of residential estate agents who combine

Within the residential market, VON POLL

international backgrounds and more than 60

talent and experience with a customer

REAL ESTATE offers comprehensive

years’ work experience concentrated mainly

focus. With both feet firmly on the ground,

knowledge and expertise. Everything from

in Amsterdam, Amstelveen and surroundings.

they make it their mission to find ‘perfect

17th-century properties to new-builds

The NVM association-certified agents possess

places to live’. They all go out to locate

blueprinted for future developments, and

a wealth of knowledge and experience

the best spots for clients to live or work,

from studio flats to detached houses and

to serve clients. Its large and expanding

start a family or retreat or for investment

houseboats. The team always does its

international network means VON POLL REAL

opportunities. VON POLL REAL ESTATE

utmost to fulfil the specific wishes and

ESTATE is perfectly placed to tap into the

understands better than anyone that each

needs of its clients.

growing global interest in Amsterdam.

Office Zuidas Claude Debussylaan 134 1082 MD Amsterdam

Office City Centre Keizersgracht 321 1016 EE Amsterdam +31 (0)20 215 99 88 www.von-poll.nl

Marie-Christine Lodewijk, Cecile Smits van Oyen, Elisabeth van Zijverden, Lisa Kooijman, Nisa San, Teun van Esch, Joan Dik, Esmee van Galen, Sianne de Stucklé & Willem Jan Romeijn

Luxurious living 5 minutes from CS Beautiful residential buildings are under construction and almost finished in Amsterdam’s new district Aan het IJ, nearby Amsterdam Central Station. What makes them special? High-end architecture,

spaciousness, comfort, bright spaces, attention to details and the use of the finest materials. There are still a number of unique penthouses for sale. For more information see our website:

aanhetij.com

Living And Lifestyle Special

Moving abroad and making a new home in an unfamiliar place can be tough. Getting off to the right start is essential, and that’s where Corporate Housing Factory comes in. For those still searching for a perfect permanent place to call home, Corporate Housing Factory can arrange temporary housing with all the comforts of a luxury hotel, right at the heart of bustling Zuidas and other big cities in the country. Service Desk Supervisor Alexandra Kinsella and Service Host Antonia Georgiou are amongst the company’s first points of contact and friendly faces for newly arriving guests.

Corporate Housing Factory

GOES THE EXTRA MILE

Antonia Georgiou & Alexandra Kinsella

With backgrounds in hotel management, these two women part of

young children, we had a teddy bear and colouring book waiting.

a service desk team of nine, give guests all the time and attention

They were so pleased.” During the lockdown, a Work-from-Home

they need. That’s also one of the things they like best about

package was implemented. Guests can request this package, so

Corporate Housing Factory. Alexandra has worked in short, medium

their apartment is well equipped with all essentials.

and long-stay solutions for four years and says, “One of the agency’s core values is a personal touch, and making people feel at home

Temporary solution

in the Netherlands is key. By taking a personal approach, being

Corporate Housing Factory offers short-stay accommodations

flexible and having face-to-face contact, we help to bring it about.

for periods running from one week to up to a year. The

It creates an immediate feeling of trust.”

serviced apartments are fully equipped with all utilities, Wi-Fi, equipment like pots, pans and serviced housecleaning, so

Personal touch

guests can easily arrive and feel right at home. All properties

Even before guests arrive, Alexandra and Antonia are on the job:

also allow pets. Alexandra: “Our guests come from all over the

collecting travel details and create itineraries to ensure a warm

world. Most stay for about three to six months. We can help out

welcome. Antonia: “After guests arrive, we take care of the check-

with all the formalities, from registration to obtaining a citizen

ins. We do whatever it takes to ensure a pleasant stay, whether it

service number. We’ll to great lengths to make our guests

concerns seeing to repairs, receiving parcels or ordering groceries.

happy and comfortable.”

We also provide a welcome package on arrival, so that they have all the necessities at their fingertips.” Alexandra and Antonia also add personal touches for each guest. “For one family with

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Dieuwertje van der Stoep

Corporate Housing Factory Gustav Mahlerlaan 50B 1082 ME Amsterdam www.corporatehousingfactory.com

A B U E LSO SI ND A N - FA ES O B S F- U G Y LO IF EA U T R S ID EA !

Spain Supreme is a unique concept bringing tasty tapas, fine wine, music, fun and good times to you or your employees, clients or customers.

Included the Spain Supreme Board Game

www.SpainSupreme.com

Scan the QR code and watch the

VIDEO

Wendy van Voskuilen De MatchMaker

+316 29 510 036 wendy@dematchmaker.nl www.dematchmaker.nl

Energieke, knappe dame (begin 30) zoekt slimme en zelfbewuste man

Warme, intelligente vrouw (eind 40) zoekt krachtige, down to earth man

Ze is arts in opleiding. Haar vlotte verschijning, communicatieve vaardigheden, empathisch vermogen en gedrevenheid maken haar onderscheidend in haar werk.

Ze is business consultant. Na loopbaan bij enkele corporates alweer jarenlang als zelfstandige aan de slag. Ze is innovatief, daadkrachtig en verbindend in haar werk.

EIGENSCHAPPEN • Vrouwelijk en stoer • Lief en avontuurlijk • Balans hard werken en genieten • Sociaal • Close met familie en vriendinnen • Racefietsen, tennis, reizen en wintersport

EIGENSCHAPPEN • Gepassioneerd • Ondernemend • Positief • Harmonieus en oprecht • Buitenmens: racefietsen, zeilen, dansen en reizen • Gescheiden, liefdevolle moeder en loyale vriendin

ZOEKT Een man die zijn leven op orde heeft en wil gaan voor een serieuze relatie. Intelligent, mannelijk en een gezond zelfvertrouwen. Verzorgd en gezellig.

ZOEKT Een man die samen wil genieten van het leven. Mannelijk, iemand die staat en met zelfvertrouwen. Iemand die graag samen buiten (sportief) is en af en toe een beetje gek doet.

Lees de uitgebreide profielen, reageer vertrouwelijk en kosteloos op WWW.DEMATCHMAKER.NL of bel naar +316 29 510 036.

Living And Lifestyle Special

THESE SISTERS ARE PROS AT SCORING THE HIGHEST PRICE FOR YOUR HOME “Every house has its own features, and our job is to present each one to the very best effect”

Merel Olde Kalter & Marinthe Olde Kalter

Value boost up to 10 per cent Marinthe Olde Kalter and Merel Olde Kalter are sisters with a passion for interiors.

According to the sisters, a passion

As one-time operators of an Airbnb business, they were privileged to see inside

for their craft is the key to swift and

hundreds of homes. That experience inspired the pair to start designing interiors

stunning results. “Our company and

for the expat market, applying their keen eye for detail. These days, the Olde Kalter

the services we offer are an outlet for

sisters’ company Kalter & Kalter is wholly specialized in sales and rental styling, and

our creativity, and of course we want

they know exactly what it takes to create that ‘homey’ feeling that makes a place

to help our clients selling a home to

irresistible to prospective buyers or tenants. The sisters offer their furnishings and

get the best possible price”, Marinthe

home accessories for hire on a limited-time basis to present a home to its best effect

explains. Merel: “We always factor in the

during viewings. After the sale, they return to collect the items.

potential target group and character of the house. A beautifully styled home

Hip, modern interiors at home and abroad

To which Marinthe adds, “That variation is

sells faster and it can boost the value by

As sisters, Marinthe and Merel share a

also what makes our work fun. Every house

as much as ten per cent. This makes our

special synergy plus an enthusiasm for

has its own features, and our job is to

clients happy, which of course makes us

their work ensuring beautiful and fast

present each one to the very best effect”.

happy too.”

results. “We supply interiors throughout the

Merel: “Having all our own furnishings and

Netherlands and also furnish homes and

accessories gives us flexibility and means

holiday accommodations abroad. From

we can work fast. We can give a home a

big to small apartments and from single-

fresh and up-to-date look in just a day.”

Interested to learn what Kalter & Kalter can do for you? Get in touch: info@kalterkalter.com +31 (0) 615 19 56 01 www.kalterkalter.com kalterkalter_amsterdam

family homes to mansions”, Merel says.

Text: Romy Lange

Business In The Spotlight

MatchMaker Wendy van Voskuilen

ENRICHES YOUR LOVE LIF Wendy van Voskuilen

A busy job, not wanting a public profile on dating apps, wanting to date selectively:

to present in a newspaper, magazine or

all are good reasons to call in the expertise of a personal and discreet matchmaker.

online. When people respond, I have just as

With her background in psychology and business administration and her years-long

deep a conversation with them as with my

HR and recruitment experience at a few multinationals, Wendy van Voskuilen knows

client. Then I assess their compatibilities, if

how to read, connect and coach people. Whether you’re a man or a woman looking

they level in terms of EQ, IQ, values, drivers,

for love, Wendy helps you to speed up and increase your chance on finding that

mindset, and way of life. During the dating

special someone to enrich your life.

phase, I can act as a sounding board and as a mirror, depending on my client’s needs.’’

While dating her husband, who works

personal MatchMaker, my mission is to

As well as fielding reactions, Wendy also

as a lawyer at the Zuidas, Wendy lived a

save their valuable time and take the

looks for matches in her database and her

busy life working for a pharmaceutical

preliminary work out of their hands and

own network. Crucial to the whole process,

company and starting a parttime study.

introduce candidates with a high chance

Wendy says, is having a comfortable and

She knows what it’s like getting to know

on a perfect match.’’

transparent relationship with clients. ‘’I

a potential love while having jam-packed

keep a fine balance between light-hearted

schedules. Her insight in personalities,

Personal approach

and in-depth conversations with them, it

coaching skills and her pleasant way of

Wendy’s personal approach is integral

is fun and challenging at the same time.

connecting are what make Wendy such

to the whole process. From the initial list

Please feel welcome to register for free in

a trusted and professional matchmaker.

of questions through to making the right

my database, to have a look at the profiles

‘’My clients are all self-conscious and

match. Wendy explains: ‘’Following the

on my website and drop me a line if one

highly driven people who have their

questionnaire, I do a two-hour visit with the

catches your eye, or phone me if you could

lives on track. People with busy lives

client to get to know them. I want to truly

use some help finding love!’’

and looking for personal guidance and

understand who you are, what makes you

quality in all kinds of services, like hiring

tick, and what you are looking for in your

a personal trainer or a life coach. As a

significant other. After that, I create a profile

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Edward van Hees

Wendy van Voskuilen +31 (0)6 29 51 00 36 www.dematchmaker.nl wendy@dematchmaker.nl

Architecture

Address

Strawinskylaan 3001, 1077 ZX Amsterdam

Architect

MVSA Architects

Developer

Icon Real Estate, G&S Vastgoed

Main user

(multi-tenant office building) CMS, ACT, WeWork

Completed in 2018 Floors 15

ARCHITECTURE

Height

68 m

Floor area

70,000 m2

Architecture

The Atrium has dominated the corner of Strawinskylaan and Parnassusweg from the earliest days of Zuidas’ development. More recently, the launch of the City’s Zuidasdok project kicked off the area’s transformation into a dynamic mixed-use urban district with a higher building density. New access roads and connections put the Atrium at the heart of this redevelopment plan. To fit in with its fast-changing urban setting, the Atrium needed a makeover. MVSA Architects’ expansion with two

Facts

new towers created 21,000 m² of additional office space. Vast and transparent, the

• Built in 1976, the Atrium is one of the

refurbished Atrium is a building that offers optimal spaces to work, meet and relax. A place where visitors effortlessly feel at home.

oldest buildings in Zuidas. • The new towers boast gorgeous courtyard gardens planted across

Unique transparency

give the whole building a uniform and

several corner sections over two

The Atrium has always been an unusual

elegant look and feel, inside and out.

or three storeys, which are also visible from outside. All of the

building, characterized by its unique

rooftops are green.

transparency, most noticeable in the large

One key aspect of the renovation was

open spaces – the atria – that bathe the

adapting public spaces along the base

interior in daylight. Also unique are the

to entice visitors to engage with the

of the parking garage, have twin

vast expanses of floor space, up to 4,500

building. The ground floor has restaurants,

atria and meandering aluminium

m2 in places. The new towers and canopies

cafés and shops, catering to visitors as well

canopies that reach out to embrace

‘embrace’ the original building. Having

as tenants. The Atrium also has a variety of

started out with three atria, the renovated

extra facilities and amenities for tenants,

complex now has five, with the two added

including extensive conference and

was awarded a rating of BREEAM

atria acting to bridge the old structure and

meeting spaces, dry cleaning and car

Excellent. The building contributes

new sections. Use of robust, sustainable

wash services, a large gym and a good

to a healthier environment and

materials and a coordinated colour palette

employee restaurant.

reduces energy costs for its tenants.

Photography: Ossip van Duivenbode, Laurens Kuipers & Michael van Oosten

• The new towers, erected on top

the original building. • The design of the new section

Renting Benefits at Vesteda

Superlative flexibility:

• several high-end properties available immediately

• apartment sharing possible

• floors and curtains optional

• temporary leases

• pets allowed !

(minimum 6 months)

Vesteda offers quality homes that suit your housing needs.

Hello You

HELLO YOU

THE GIFT SUMMER The Self Love Movement @ INNSiDE by Meliá Amsterdam, 29 June 2021 During this event, Friends of the Brands presented the latest trends in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, tech and hotspots. This edition featured a special focus on ‘Self Love’, around which Friends of the Brands seeks to raise social awareness. The Cielo skybar at INNSiDE by Meliá Amsterdam was transformed into a total shopping experience, showcasing all the latest products by the hottest brands of the moment.

Members Meeting

MEMBERS ONLY

GUIDED TOUR OF ARTZUID Tuesday 14 September 2021

You are cordially invited to join us for a guided tour of the ARTZUID Sculpture Route on Tuesday 14 September. We will set out from De Thomas in small groups to see the sculptures and re-join afterwards for drinks at CIRCL. Please note that places are limited. The 2021 edition of this acclaimed sculpture biennial is titled ‘Imagine’, after the song of the same name by John Lennon. It was curated by Ralph Keuning, director of Museum De Fundatie, who selected 50 Dutch and international artists whose work focuses on engagement for a better society.

Meeting Point

De Thomas, Prinses Irenestraat 36, Amsterdam

Date

Tuesday 14 September

send an email to servicepoint@hellozuidas.com

Sustainability

Eline Kik and Tom van Es

SUSTAINABILITY

ZUIDAS SETS THE STANDARD FOR SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT When it comes to urban development, Zuidas is already a pioneer in sustainability.

working methods and implementing them

But there are still plenty of projects in the works to make and keep the district as

in the best possible way”, Eline says. “This

sustainable as possible. Tom van Es, Program Manager Zuidas Sustainability, Water

includes initiatives like the zero-waste

and Green, and Eline Kik, director of Green Business Club Zuidas, outline where Zuidas

ambition, switching from natural gas and

stands now and point out key factors in greening the district.

heat-cold storage.”

With most of its building stock qualifying

Future plans

Incentives

as ‘young’ – less than twenty years old –

That certain features of the district

When it first started, Green Business Club

Zuidas can potentially provide a model

can serve as a model certainly doesn’t

Zuidas focused mainly on organizing

for other districts across the Netherlands.

mean developments here have stopped.

and implementing projects. Now, ten

Zuidas boasts energy-neutral buildings,

According to Tom, one of the main

years on, monitoring those projects’

buildings with green and blue roofs

ambitions right now is to take Zuidas off

progress is just as crucial, Eline says.

and buildings with vertical planting. An

natural gas. “Big strides are being made at

“This September we’re launching the

‘Ambition Plan’ (Green Business Club

various levels and we’re hoping to get the

fully optimized version of our dashboard,

Zuidas Ambitieverklaring 2021-2025) drawn

district completely off natural gas by 2025.

showing how all participants together are

up and signed by 55 organizations in

Ultimately, the goal is for Zuidas to be

coming along on the sustainability front

Zuidas this past spring, sets sustainability

energy neutral by 2030. For the buildings

in the Zuidas area. For more information,

goals for the district. Tom explains: “The

that are here already, this will entail major

please visit our website: gbczuidas.

City has made additional funds available

overhauls to make them sustainable.

nl.” Organizations that are interested

for green landscaping and expanding

Given the complexity, that will take a

in sustainability can always consult the

water storage capacity in this vulnerable

while to accomplish.” Green Business Club

district platforms or join any one of GBC’s

area with lots of paving. In public spaces,

Zuidas actively stimulates and assists

projects. Tom: “I encourage everyone to

you can see this in the development of the

organizations to prioritize sustainability in

pop out on their lunch breaks and take

Boelegracht, the Knowledge Quarter and

their operations. “We support companies

a little walk around to see all that’s

Prinses Irenestraat.”

in Zuidas towards developing sustainable

been accomplished!”

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Caily Bobby Jo

Business In The Spotlight

Rosarium is ready to roll! Rosarium is ready to set out on a new phase with its meeting and event venue. “This past year, with the lockdown, it was rough”, acknowledges Manager Jordi van den Berg. “Service, facilitating events and taking care of guests is in our DNA. We couldn’t do that, but our optimism and enthusiasm are back. We’re ready to welcome back all of our regular guests as well as new ones. And we’re proud to show that Rosarium looks as new again, has invested in a state-of-the-art ventilation system and has implemented sustainability in different ways.”

Jordi van den Berg, Michiel Post & Marelie Bosch van Drakestein

Indoors is outdoors

New chef

participants and speakers as guests on

Situated in beautiful green surroundings,

As a fervent foodie, Marelie is very

location. And for small team sessions

near Zuidas and the A10 ringway,

excited about the gastronomy: “The food

to larger conferences. Live streaming

Rosarium is a seamless blend of indoors

experience of our clients is continuously

is an ideal complement to traditional

and outdoors. All the spaces have

changing, from the sandwich lunch

presentations. Nevertheless, there’s

French door openings which lead to a

buffet to sit-down dinners to receptions.

a universal preference to meet in real

private terrace that overlooks the flower

Vegetarian, biological products and

life. Not only there is there a stronger

garden. And beyond that Amstelpark is

super healthy are the big trends at the

engagement, the dynamics are different

possibly Amsterdam’s most picturesque

moment.” The new chef, Michiel Post,

when things are completely online in

parc. “You’re not attending a meeting

agrees. “It’s wonderful to let guests taste

comparison to meeting each other in

in a large convention complex or in

a healthy lunch or dinner without making

person. “We want to connect people

a hotel with guests checking in and

any concessions to quality. Cooking

in every way. Next year, Rosarium will

out”, Sales & Event Manager Marelie

with locally sourced ingredients and

celebrate its 50th anniversary”, Jordi

Bosch van Drakestein explains. “The

sustainable products – that’s my motto.”

notes. “That’s a big milestone, so we want to celebrate it with everyone in a big

relaxed ambiance, the peace and quiet of the green surroundings and excellent

Live & hybrid

accessibility are precisely what sets us

Rosarium is hosting many hybrid (virtual

apart. You can take a stroll through the

+ in-person) meetings already. It can

park during a break of your meeting.

supply all the technical resources needed

That’s a great way to recharge.”

to facilitate meetings for both online

Tekst: Romy Lange • Fotografie: Dieuwertje van der Stoep

way. We’re ready for it!”

Rosarium Amstelpark 1 Europaboulevard 1083 HZ Amsterdam +31 (0) 20 644 40 85 www.rosarium.net

Apartment ...

or cottage

In the city ...

or in the country

A financial advisor who arranges everything

or get a mortgage online on your own

Whatever you decide, We will provide you with the best advice De Hypotheker Zuidas Strawinskylaan 1427 WTC Amsterdam 1077 XX Amsterdam + 31 (0)20 662 1411 www.hypotheker.nl

Lost in transla�on? We’re not. www.taalcentrum-vu.nl/en/transla�ons 020 - 598 64 20 | info@taalcentrum-vu.nl

Located in the heart of the Zuidas at the George Gershwinlaan, the Manhattan Lounge-Bar is finally re-opening again!

Like our Facebook or Instagram page and enjoy great benefits during the first of many Sport & Music events that will be held in the Manhattan Lounge-Bar. Stay tuned and welcome back!

GEORGE GERSHWINL A AN 101 1082 MT AMSTERDAM

FACEBOOK

INSTAGR AM

Hello You

HELLO YOU

GRACHTENFESTIVAL

Grachtenfestival Mabassa @ Loyens & Loeff, 17 August 2021 Loyens & Loeff opened its doors to treat a group of Hello Zuidas members to a summer evening of sultry Brazilian-Caribbean music by the duo Mabassa, rounded out with delicious drinks and finger food. The warm vibes had everyone smiling and feeling they’d been briefly transported to a tropical island in the middle of Zuidas.

Photography: Ruben Stam

Legal

LEGAL

PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW Victor van Ahee Buildings are going up all over Zuidas, and that’s not set to

Attorney at law (Competition & Regulatory) at Loyens & Loeff

change any time soon. Residents of area apartments are sure to be keeping a particularly close eye on all these building

What are some common problems in the

works. Because while construction companies normally

sphere of environmental and planning law?

adhere to the rules and can’t do anything without the proper

Environmental and planning law covers a massive field of legal

permits, sometimes developments take you by surprise or have

topics. The most common cases relate to building permits,

components you object to. We asked three legal experts in

regulatory enforcement, industrial and other environmental

Zuidas about planning and environmental law (Omgevingsrecht

impacts and the effects of human action on nature. More specific

in Dutch) and when it is advisable to take action.

topics include soil (e.g. contamination), heat, water management, transport and energy infrastructure. Loyens & Loeff’s clients are mainly large industrial companies and real estate owners and developers, that face strategic or legal complications relating to their operations and developments. Most notably, transition to more sustainable energy supplies and use is now throwing up a lot of legal challenges in the environmental law field. Can I find out which rules apply where I live? In theory, the access to environmental law sources is very easy, because all the laws, decrees, zoning plans, case law and governmental policies can be found online. However, because it is so complicated, you may still need a specialized lawyer to make sense of it all. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of national and European laws and regulations, so you need legal experience, analytical skills and a fair amount of general knowledge to truly understand and achieve the best outcome.

Legal

Alexander IJkelenstam Lawyer (Administrative Law & Environmental and Planning Law) at CMS Let’s say a new tower is built and it blocks your view. What are the chances you can do something about it, as a resident acting alone? Often, people don’t realize how important zoning plans are. If your local zoning allows for the construction of a new tower, there is little you can do. If there is some deviation from those plans, you can do more. Visit the municipal council with your neighbours. Also, talk to the developer. But be aware that, in the Netherlands, there is no such thing as the right to something like an unobstructed view. If you disagree with the definitive plans, you have to lodge concrete objections. A shortage of parking spaces, for instance, or a clear conflict with environmental protection laws. Administrative law was designed to enable litigation without a lawyer, but it has become such a maze of red tape that, in practice, most people get lost without a lawyer. What should you pay attention to with changes in your residential environment? Basically, once building works start in your neighbourhood, it is too late. By then, the deadline for lodging an objection has usually expired. You can subscribe to municipal publications for your neighbourhood at www.overheid.nl. If a zoning plan change is imminent or an environmental permit has been requested to renovate that vacant building down the street, you’ll be notified in good time so you can contact the developer, and file an objection if you need to. Once the new Dutch Environment and Planning Act (Omgevingswet) takes effect, developers themselves will be obligated to organize consultations with local residents. How that will work, though, is still unclear.

Tycho Mol Junior Associate Public Law at Dentons Should you take action if you hear about

Are neighbours who band together

construction plans, but know nothing

in a stronger position to act?

beyond that? And, if so, how?

There are practical benefits to cooperating

It can often be helpful to reach out to the

with neighbours, for example in relation

developers of construction plans during

to media exposure and sharing of costs.

an early stage of that development. In

The legal benefits are limited, since a

order to prevent lengthy legal procedures,

judge assesses each person’s appeal

developers may be willing to change their

on its individual admissibility and legal

plans to your advantage. Yet, from a spatial

arguments. In some cases, however, a

planning law perspective, legal remedies

group of people may invoke a wider variety

only become available after publication of

of arguments, as opposed to one person,

the environmental permit or draft permit.

since each individual is limited to invoking

After publication, it is important to submit

rules that serve to protect their individual

either an objection or an opinion against

interests. A bigger group could mean more

the environmental permit or draft permit

interests and therefore more possible

within the six-week deadline.

grounds of appeal.

Text: Romy Lange

Mobility

WIN-WIN WITH

Mobility

MOBILITY Public transport use has taken a hit during the coronavirus pandemic. OV-Buddies wants to change that, by getting all of Zuidas to encourage colleagues to skip the car and take public transport (‘OV’) to work. To sweeten the deal, participants are rewarded for every public transport journey to or from Zuidas. OV-Buddies is that simple: take public transport to work and earn prizes. Using public transport reduces parking headaches and boosts business sustainability. In other words, it’s a win-win!

‘OV-BUDDIES’! With OV-Buddies, committed public transport users seek out

Each team participates for one calendar month (September,

car-commuting colleagues whitin their organization. Then, they

October or November). Team-mates do not have to travel together.

Each time a team-mate/ex-motorist takes public transport to work,

earn great prizes in Zuidas!

they collect points. The buddy/public transport pro also gets points for every public transport journey their team-mates make.

GOT A QUESTION OR WANT TO REGISTER?

Note: offer valid for up to 100 employees including buddies and

* This project is an initiative of Van A tot Zuidas: a platform in which

participants. If you have any questions about this offer, get in touch

Green Business Club Zuidas, ORAM, Taskforce Bereikbaarheid Zuidas,

with Rinske Berg, Mobility & Accessibility project manager at Hello

Gemeente Amsterdam Zuidas, Bycs, Breikers and Hello Zuidas are

Zuidas: rinske.berg@hellozuidas.com. Disclaimer: the ‘OV-Buddies’

working together to promote sustainable mobility to and from Zuidas.

campaign is subject to change due to coronavirus restrictions.

For more information, see www.vanatotzuidas.nl

New Members

NEW MEMBERS

Hello Zuidas welcomes

WELCOME HOME STREETS OF THE WORLD PHOTO CLASS Sector: Lifestyle & concierge services Number of employees: 3 Link with Zuidas Welcome Home offers a Resident Concierge Service for both private individuals and project developers in Zuidas.

VU | GRIFFIOEN

Reason for becoming

Sector: Theatre

Sector: Events & education

a Hello Zuidas member

Employees: 10

Employees: 5

Welcome Home is a high-end concierge

(+ approx. 20 service desk flex workers + approx. 50 course teachers)

service dedicated to a comfortable Link with Zuidas

lifestyle. We are a partner for project

Smartphone city walk in Zuidas.

developers and homeowners’ associations

Link with Zuidas

of luxury residential complexes. Our virtual Reason for becoming

Resident Concierge enhances the five-star

a Hello Zuidas member

living experience, available starting from

Reason for becoming

Renowned photographer Jeroen

four apartments! We also offer a wide

a Hello Zuidas member

Swolfs combines his Streets of the

range of services for private homeowners.

Griffioen theatre and course centre is

World exhibition in Zuidas with

coming to Zuidas to shake up the business

smartphone city walks through

district and enrich the lives of everyone

the district, teaching participants,

who works, studies or lives here, with a

corporate teams and tourists

packed programme of cultural activities.

about photography and helping

Extend your 9 to 5 with fun!

them on the way to becoming

Photo: Too van Velzen

smartphone photography pros.

Located on the VU Campus.

TPEX INTERNATIONAL Sector: Real estate (focused on data-driven real estate, smart buildings & sustainability) Employees: 20+ Link with Zuidas Established in Zuidas since 2011. Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member TPEX provides building monitoring and management services. We have been based in Zuidas for years, have various clients here, and would like to strengthen our ties with Zuidas.

New Members

the following new members AM Sector: Area and property development Number of employees: 180 Link with Zuidas Involved in different development projects in Zuidas.

FYEO Sector: Eye clinic Number of employees: 130

TIERRA RESTAURANT AND GRAB & GO BAR

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member As an area and property developer,

Sector: Hospitality

we’re shaping tomorrow’s living,

Link with Zuidas

(hotel and restaurant)

working and leisure environments and

FYEO Amsterdam Boelelaan has opened

Number of employees: 15

have been active in Zuidas for many

in the former Worldeye clinic, and its

years. With the recent multifunctional

ambition fits in perfectly with Zuidas as a

Link with Zuidas

concept Crossover, AM and its

high-end district.

Brand-new restaurant in the lobby of

partners are setting the

INNSiDE by Meliá Amsterdam.

tone for the future

Reason for becoming

development of

a Hello Zuidas member

Reason for becoming

It is important to FYEO to connect with the

a Hello Zuidas member

community, which in Zuidas means the

We’re looking forward to welcoming our

leading companies and diversity of residents

neighbours and Zuidas professionals to

here. With our advanced lens implant and

our new lifestyle hotel. Tierra serves classic

laser eye treatments, we aim to enable

Spanish cuisine with a modern twist,

as many people as possible to enjoy life

packed with authentic flavour and open

unfettered by glasses or contact lenses.

around the clock.

Kop Zuidas.

CIELO SKYBAR & RESTAURANT Sector: Hospitality (hotel and restaurant) Number of employees: 15 Link with Zuidas The first skybar in Zuidas, with stunning views of the city. Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member Cielo is a place where the sky is literally the limit. One moment you’re working, the next you’re dancing under the stars and revelling in spectacular panoramic views of stunning Amsterdam. And why not start your day with breakfast in the clouds? Pure heaven!

Memo Board

MEMO BOARD VISIT PAN AMSTERDAM! PAN Amsterdam is where art lovers come together. Now in its 35th edition, this fair is one of the premier events in the annual art calendar, showcasing a wide variety of antiques, design and art. Drawing over 40,000 visitors each year, it hosts some 110 antique dealers, traders and galleries presenting their finest pieces. Diverse and widely-priced, the selection ranges from archaeological artefacts, Asian objects and silver to contemporary art, photography, design and jewellery of all kinds. Paired with PAN Podium’s interactive programme of talks and activities, this multifaceted fair offers plenty to inspire and admire. Come discover PAN Amsterdam at the RAI on 14-21 November. For further information and opening hours, visit www.pan.nl.

PRIDE IN ZUIDAS The 25th edition of the Pride Festival came to Zuidas in recent weeks, displaying a wealth of rainbow colours! Businesses in Zuidas joined to raise awareness for acceptance of the LGBT+ community in the workplace. The Kraft Heinz head office in Zuidas was among those showing its colourful support!

Memo Board

Coming soon...

On Instagram we read the exciting news that De Pizzabakkers are coming to Valley. We can’t wait!!

NOTICED THESE SIGNS ON ZUIDPLEIN? the work of artist Joanneke Meester, whose pieces

#ZUIDAS

home in on how people communicate consciously

Zuidas as a backdrop for their Instagram

and unconsciously. ARTZUID 2021 is on through 17

posts. Noticed Zuidas popping up more in

October and is free and open to the public.

your feed? We can’t get enough of these

‘What is the shortest path to wisdom?’, reads one. Another: ‘Scent also says a lot.’ These signs are

A growing number of influencers are using

gorgeous pics, so keep ‘em coming!

Meet The...

Zuidas is best known as Amsterdam’s business district, chock-a-block with skyscrapers and scores of offices. More recently, however, the district has grown into a veritable urban neighbourhood and a great place to live and hang out. Many businesses have also discovered Zuidas, and with their arrival, the district has added a wide range of services and amenities, including shops, schools, fitness centres and places to drink and dine. Powering each of these establishments are entrepreneurs and employees with their own special, personal stories wich we’re eager to share with you.

MEET THE...

SECURITY GUARD!

Kenneth Smit

This month, we introduce you

including First Aid, CPR, assistant bomb

building at once in different configurations:

to a security guard at the new

reconnaissance and ERO group leader.”

in the courtrooms, offices and meeting

Amsterdam Courthouse in the heart of

rooms. It’s almost like working two layers

Zuidas. Kenneth Smit (50) lives a quiet

What’s the best part of your job?

– the judicial apparatus itself and then the

life with his wife, daughter and the

“The variety is what I like best; you never

offices in addition to that. Daily forecasts

family dog, but working as a security

know what will happen on any given day.

are an important part of our job, because

guard in the new courthouse puts him

I like keeping busy, and if I’m involved

the more people there are working, the

at the centre of the action in Zuidas

in something, I want to know all the ins

more security we need. I’m the point of

every day. Unflagging vigilance makes

and outs. After doing the job for a few

contact and the nature of my job changes,

Kenneth a star at his job.

years, I was temporarily deployed in the

too. We’re still discovering new aspects

judicial sector and in 1998 I decided to do

every day.”

Kenneth, did you want to

courthouse work full-time. In the control

be a security guard as a kid?

room we deal with incoming and outgoing

How do you like working in Zuidas?

“When I started this job, I thought it would

transports, courtroom alarm calls, first aid

“The area is developing constantly, and

be for five years, max. Originally, I studied to

and CPR follow-up – there’s a lot involved.”

our building is one example. I’ve worked

teach commerce at secondary vocational

here since 1995 and have seen everything

level, but I did not really enjoy that, so when

What is different about

change, which has been a blast. What’s

I saw a job posted by the NVD security

working in the new courthouse?

more, you can really see partners are

firm, I made the switch to security. In the

“The main factor is the size and complexity

working together more effectively.

end, I stuck with it, and even now, 23 years

of the new courthouse. We went from three

Everyone’s learning from each other, so it’s

later, no two days are alike. Professionally,

separate buildings to one big complex.

self-reinforcing. Together, we’re making this

I’ve advanced with various certifications,

There can be close to 3,000 people in the

a safe and liveable community.”

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

MEMBERS

01. 900 Mahler (Syntrus Achmea) 02. ABN AMRO 03. Accendium 04. Accenture 05. À Deauville 06. AFC 07. AkzoNobel 08. Albert Heijn 09. Alpha Security 10. AMAZE 11. amsterdam inbusiness 12. Amsterdamse Bos 13. Amsterdam UMC 14. APG 15. Arcadis 16. Arnold & Siedsma 17. Art Zuid 18. Asunaro Holland Interplan 19. Avenue Services 20. Bagels & Beans 21. Baker McKenzie 22. Bar Valdi 23. Being Development 24. Bolenius 25. Bouwens& 26. Boyden Global Executive Search 27. Breevast 28. BREIKERS 29. Broersma Nieuwbouw 30. BYCS 31. Caffè Belmondo 32. CBRE B.V. 33. citizenM 34. Che Buono 35. Cielo 36. Circl 37. Club Sportive 38. CMS 39. CoffeeDC 40. Cognito Financial Communications 41. Confius Executive Search 42. Corporate Housing Factory 43. Cosmo Hairstyling 44. Courtesie 45. Crossover (AM) 46. Crowne Plaza A’dam South 47. Customized Media 48. D&B The Facility Group 49. De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek 50. De Hypotheker

SEPTEMBER 2021

51. Deloitte 52. De Kredieter 53. De Nieuwe Poort 54. De Zuidas Apotheek 55. Dentons Boekel 56. dess Kirstins 57. Doctor Feelgood 58. Eden McCallum 59. Eefje Voogd Makelaardij 60. Engel & Völkers 61. ENGIE 62. Etage 0 63. Euro CCP 64. Europcar 65. European Language Centre 66. Expat Center 67. EY 68. Fam. Advocaten 69. Fetch Car Sharing 70. Financial Offices 71. Five Clinics 72. Flexform Amsterdam 73. FLOW Real Estate 74. Food & i 75. Fortron B.V. 76. Freelancers United 77. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 78. Fris Makelaars 79. FSB Beveiliging 80. FYEO 81. Gelderlandplein 82. G&S Vastgoed 83. Goede Doelen Loterijen 84. Gerrit Rietveld Academie 85. Grand Café Mahler 86. Greenberg Nielsen 87. Green Business Club 88. Greenwheels 89. Gustavino 90. GVB 91. HAB Int. Accountants & Consultants 92. Happyhappyjoyjoy Zuidas 93. Hestia Kinderopvang 94. Het Zwarte Fietsenplan 95. Hogan Lovells International LLP 96. Holiday Inn Amsterdam 97. Houthoff 98. Hotel TWENTY EIGHT 99. House of Sports 100. Htel Serviced Apartments

COLOPHON Foundation Hello Zuidas WTC Amsterdam Strawinskylaan 61 1077 XW - Amsterdam +31 (0)20 333 74 41 servicepoint@hellozuidas.com www.hellozuidas.com www.facebook.com/hellozuidas www.instagram.com/hellozuidas www.twitter.com/hellozuidas Our goal With an excellent business climate, worldrenowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, the Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to the Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions.

101. IEF Real Estate 102. IMA 103. in2motivation 104. InAmsterdam 105. ING Rayon A’dam Zuid West 106. Innside by Melia 107. ISX Beveiliging 108. JLL 109. JuiceBrothers 110. KNAP Makelaardij 111. Koetjes en Kalfjes 112. König + Neurath (Nederland) A.G. 113. Kraft Heinz 114. La Lotteria 115. Lebkov & Sons 116. Lexence 117. Leonidas 118. LibRT 119. Limon 120. Loyens & Loeff 121. Lunshof Makelaardij 122. Maarsen Groep Beheer B.V. 123. Macquarie Capital (Europe) 124. Made in May 125. Magazine-Masters.nl 126. MaMa Kelly 127. Market 33 128. Mastercard 129. Mastro Sarto 130. MBO College Zuid 131. Mech Make & Take 132. Misura Sartoria 133. Mobeazy Flexible Carsharing 134. Multicopy Amsterdam Centrum 135. Mylk 136. NACH 137. Nannies Nursery 138. NDI ICT Solutions 139. Nederlandse Ver. van Banken 140. Nedstede Real Estate 141. NH Amsterdam Zuid 142. nhow Amsterdam RAI 143. Nicolaas Lyceum 144. Novotel Amsterdam City 145. NS 146. Olympisch Stadion 147. Oliver’s 148. ONE-Dyas B.V. 149. Openbare Bibliotheek 150. ORAM

151. Oranje Energie 152. OVG Real Estate 153. Ox & Bucks 154. PAN Amsterdam 155. Pancakes Amsterdam 156. Partou Kinderopvang 157. Pathé 158. Personality 159. PizzaLab 160. PLTS Reformer Pilates 161. Poké Perfect 162. Premier Suites Plus Amsterdam 163. Projectorganisatie Zuidasdok 164. Property NL B.V. 165. Protiviti 166. Provast 167. Qbic Hotels 168. Q-Park Nederland 169. Rabobank A’dam Markt Zuid 170. RAI Amsterdam 171. Regus 172. Reset Yourself 173. Restaurant het Bosch 174. RGA International Reinsurance 175. Rialto 176. Rivers 177. Rob Peetoom 178. Ronald McDonaldhuis VUmc 179. Rosarium 180. Russell Reynolds Associates 181. Savills Amsterdam 182. Salsa Shop 183. Season-Flowers 184. Securitas 185. Shinyu Body & Mind 186. Simmons & Simmons LLP 187. Sixt 188. Smartphone Citywalk Zuidas 189. Spa Sport Hotel Zuiver 190. Specialists in Security 191. Spine Health Incompany 192. Spirit Hospitality Services 193. Square 194. Stibbe 195. Student Experience 196. Summertime 197. Sushi Time 198. Symphony’s 199. Taalcentrum - VU 200. Tandartsenpraktijk Van de Veer

Hello Zuidas invests in trees! How we do that? Through our sponsorship for Trees for All, we plant trees that restore existing forests.

Zuidas Publishers WTC Amsterdam Strawinskylaan 151 1077 XX Amsterdam +31 (0)20 362 09 93 info@zuidaspublishers.nl www.zuidaspublishers.nl

Editor-in-chief Romy Lange Editor & Sales Céline Boute & Nicole Pak Art Director Emiel Brouwers • IMAGEAU Translation Taalcentrum-VU Final Editor Ellen Josée Westrik Printed by Magazine Masters Frequency Six times a year (bi-monthly)

Copyright © 2021 Zuidas Publishers All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.

Editors Romy Lange, Céline Boute, Nicole Pak, Paul van Lange, Jos Moerkamp, Renske van Bers & Trevor Holtkamp

Circulation Free for Zuidas and Amsterdam South. It is be distributed by promo teams, loose circulation, HRM departments of companies within Zuidas to guarantee reaching the (sub) target groups of Zuidas, Amsterdam and Schiphol.

Photography Dieuwertje van der Stoep (cover), Caily Bobbie Jo, Roxanne Willem, Ruben Stam & Marcel Steinbach Editorial advisory board Olivier Otten, Kirsten van Keimpema, T revor Holtkamp, Jos Moerkamp & Renske van Bers

201. Taylor Wessing 202. Tax Consultants International 203. Taxicentrale Amsterdam (TCA) 204. The Bank of New York Mellon 205. The Basket 206. The Bikevertising Company 207. The Breakfast Club 208. The Office Operators 209. The Upside Down Amsterdam 210. Thomaskerk Amsterdam 211. Tierra 212. TPEX 213. TREC 214. Tribes 215. Urban Salad 216. Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Zuidas 217. Van Dijk & Ten Cate 218. Van Gool Elburg 219. Van Lanschot Kempen 220. Vermaat Groep 221. Vesteda 222. Von Poll Real Estate 223. VondelGym 224. VORM Ontwikkeling 225. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam 226. VU | Griffioen 227. Wagamama 228. Watersportvereniging De Koenen 229. We Canteen 230. Welcome Home 231. WeWork 232. Wineboutique & Spirits 233. Wintertaling 234. WTC Amsterdam 235. WTC A’dam Business Club 236. WTCafé De Blauwe Engel 237. WuSH 238. XO Optics 239. X2X Worldwide Express 240. YoungCapital 241. Your Assistant 242. Zuidas Apotheek 243. Zuidas Bier 244. Zuidas gemeente Amsterdam 245. Zuidas Publishers 246. Zuidas Today 247. ZuidasTravel.nl

Magazine Hello Zuidas is issued by

Thanks to Winy Maas (MVRDV Architects), Valley Living, Van Poelgeest, The Mayor Amstelveen, Clubsportive, Kroonenberg Groep, Von Poll Real Estate, Zuidas (Gemeente Amsterdam), FYEO, Eat First, Maarsen Groep, The British School of Amsterdam, Gelderlandplein, Taalcentrum-VU, De Hypotheker, Art Zuid, Paul van Lange, Nyenrode, Reina van Grondelle, Bouwinvest, Sandra Risseeuw, Eva Lindfors, Real Estate Building Futureproof Festival, Aan het IJ, Corporate Housing Factory, Spain Supreme, De MatchMaker, MVSA Architects, Vesteda, Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South, Eline Kik, Tom van Es, Rosarium, FYEO, Victor van Ahee, Tycho Mol, Alexander IJkelenstam & Kenneth Smit

WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLACE AN AD IN HELLO ZUIDAS MAGAZINE? PLEASE SEND AN E-MAIL TO INFO@ZUIDASPUBLISHERS.NL

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Hello Zuidas - september/oktober editie #57

Articles inside

Corporate Housing Factory

The Mayor

Von Poll Real Estate

De Hypotheker

Zuidas Home Tour, Xavier – Eva Lindfors