Building Ministry of Defence, The Hague
Description
The Ministry of Defence building is not just one building. The characteristic building on the Plein dates from 1746 and originally housed a gentlemen's club.
The building on the Kalvermarkt is from the first half of the 20th century and the part adjacent to Korte Houtstraat is from the second half of the 20th century, as is the part adjacent to Bagijnestraat. Each of the buildings thus dates from a different style period.
Architect Ellen Sander carried out the commission to make it a whole. Heijmans managed to realise her innovative design.
Come on in!
It is a pity that few people get to see her work. Hardly anything has been changed on the three facades and anyone who wants to look inside must have the right papers. It is, after all, defence.
KIVI has contacts that make it possible not only to take a look inside, but also to get explanations from the architect, as well as from the contractor who applied the highly innovative techniques.
Composites play a major role in design in two ways. As a construction material and as a shuttering material. The glazed frames above the courtyards consist of composite elements. The columns and beams supporting the roof are cast in reusable composite formwork. The advantage of this construction method is that it allows great freedom of form, which has been widely used in the building's architecture.
14.30 hours Reception at the Lion's Pit
15.00 - 15.10 hours Welcome by Mr Cees van Wezel, site manager
15.10 - 15.30 hours Explanation by the architect, Ellen Sander
15.30 - 15.50 hours Explanation by Ernst Hagen of Heijmans
16.00 - 17.00 hours Guided tour
PLEASE NOTE: You will need to show a valid ID at the start of the tour. Without an ID card/passport, you will not be allowed access to the building.
Location
2511 CB The Hague
Organiser
Construction
Name and contact details for information
Wim Poelman Board member KIVI Bouw