Strongly connected to the city centre, where the public debate is truly public through transparency
A place for political debate. For provision of public service. Because of that meaning and role, the design was focused on a strong connection with its surroundings: the city centre and the motorway
The Waalwijk City Hall is a characteristic building that clearly has two faces. It is friendly and welcoming towards the local population, and also a powerful eye-catcher for passers-by on the A59 motorway. This was derived from a town planning analysis of the location of the building, adjacent to the city centre. The municipal services, that used to be located at five different locations, are now centralised in one building in the city hall.
Sculptural
As a place for political debate and public service, the City Hall plays an important role in the local community. Therefore, much attention was paid to the connection with the surroundings, at the edge of the city centre. The bright orange prefabricated brick facade makes the building a robust, sculptural beacon, and refers to the old building, designed by architect Kropholler. The striking, slightly tilted tower on the side of the motorway is a nod to the dome of the monumental local church of St. Jan, and has six levels with an overhang, which gives the building a dynamic appearance.
Plenty of daylight
On the side of the city centre, the new city hall connects to the historic buildings with a modest height of three levels. The spacious city hall in the building is reminiscent of a square, thanks to abundant daylight that streams in through glass skylights and facades. This creates a series of indoor and outdoor squares that connect the city hall and the city, from the Market to the city hall.
The biggest compliment that can be made to him about the city hall? "That the people of Waalwijk will soon proudly name the new city hall, alongside the Sint Jan and the Kropholler complex, when asked what is essentially Waalwijk."
Mayor Kleijngeld
Transparent
The council chamber on the first floor makes the political debate visible from the outside with its ample glass facade and offers inspiration with a beautiful view of the city. The city hall and landing provide opportunities for receptions and exhibitions, making the city hall lively and vibrant. The leather-clad wall between the public hall and the council chamber is a nod to the local artisanal history.
“This striking building gives the centre even more appeal. But it does more. It also contributes to the connection of the centre with the Taxandriazone”
Alderman Heuverling
Future-proof
Sustainability is integrated into the design with concrete core activation for heating and cooling, cold and heat storage in the ground and compact construction around the city hall. This provides both energy savings and greater well-being for users.