The Diamond Exchange, Capital C Amsterdam, in Amsterdam has been nominated for the ‘WAN Awards 2020’ an international architecture award. The Diamond Exchange, built in 1911, has been transformed into a center for the creative industry: Capital C Amsterdam. To restore the original character of the monument, the building underwent a major renovation with a design by the architectural office ZJA in collaboration with Heyligers design + projects. The renovation included restoration of features from the original Gerrit van Arkel design, and adaptation of the interior for use as a modern and flexible office environment, besides the addition of a glass and steel dome named the ‘High Light’.
High Light
The construction of the High Light is based on the principle of grid shells which allows for freedom of shape and column-free large spans. Parametric design principles were employed to create a light and transparent dome, with no part exactly the same as the other. The glass panels in its skin are layered with solar cells, generating energy and providing protection from the sun to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. The floor of the dome which is made from 3D-printed recycled beer bottles, is equipped with an underfloor heating and cooling system. The green roof acts as a rainwater buffer and increases biodiversity, filters fine dust from the air and retains CO2.
Art and design
Art and design are a common thread that runs through the building. The design for Capital C was created in collaboration with about 20 artists who fit artworks and design additions into the building that are part of the identity of Capital C. Artists and designers have designed various spaces throughout the building like the entrance, stairwells, meeting rooms and offices and equipped these with art, giving each space a unique identity. A pop-up gallery is located in the main hall, which offers room for exhibitions to galleries from Amsterdam. An inviting terrace in front of the building designed by Gabriel Lester will be added, surrounded by a public green zone.
Scintillating monument
As Capital C, the Diamond Exchange offers a contemporary office environment and art exhibitions situated within a truly unique monument. Moreover, it provides one of the most spectacular views of the city, as seen from its roof dominated by the iconic dome. The Diamond Exchange has once again become a key location in Amsterdam, as a scintillating monument reflecting both the past and the present of Amsterdam.
In November the winners of the WAN Awards 2020 will be announced.
Zadelhoff B.V. and Sijthoff Media (client), Müller & van Tol (Interior designer), Braaksma & Roos Architectenbureau (Restoration architect), Van Milt Restaurateurs (Restoration Experts): Pieters Bouwtechniek (Design consultant), DCV Bouw (Principal contractor), Octatube (Engineer and contractor roof structure), Studio Linse (Interior designer High Light, NewKantoor (Contractor finishing phase), Peak Development (Projectmanagement).
Photo's: Jan Willem Kaldenbach
