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The Oudemanhuispoort consists of multiple historic buildings and is one of the most characteristic locations in the University Quarter. The complex gets its name from the entrance through the book market ('Oudemanhuispoort') and features a unique historical courtyard. It is currently partially used by the Faculty of Humanities and supporting services of the University of Amsterdam (UvA). The remaining spaces are arranged as temporary student housing. The UvA intends to renovate the Oudemanhuispoort complex in phases.
With the phased approach outlined below, the UvA aims to preserve the Oudemanhuispoort for the next ten to fifteen years for research and education for the rapidly growing student population. This allows the UvA time to explore the requirements and desires of both the UvA and the municipality for the future. The expectation is that this phased approach will make the (financial) risks more manageable.
Phase 1: Refurbishment of the square and buildings on Slijkstaat
The UvA will take the necessary measures in the square (A) and the buildings (C and D) on Slijkstraat. Education takes place here, and there are offices. This will remain unchanged. There will be no changes to the layout. The outdated seating, installations, and ICT will be replaced and made more user-friendly.
The interior will be addressed and refreshed, outdated installations replaced, and cabling for data traffic will be installed for better wifi and faster internet. Where it is logical and sensible, sustainability measures will be implemented. These are measures that align with good ownership of the building. These measures cause minimal disruption and will take place during educational periods. Disruptive activities will be carried out in the summer of 2025.
Phase 2: Renovation, Restoration, and Sustainability of Buildings on Kloveniersburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal
In the monumental buildings on Kloveniersburgwal (E, F, and G), there is education, and in the section on Oudezijds Achterburgwal (B), there are mainly offices with support functions for education. After sustainability measures, the UvA will connect these buildings to the WKO system of the University Quarter.
Phase 3: Renovation, Restoration, and Sustainability of the Square and Buildings on Slijkstraat
The goal is to restore and renovate the buildings along Slijkstraat (C and D) and the square (A) in such a way that they meet current requirements for education and offices while making the historical values of the Oudemanhuispoort more visible and experiential. The OMHP will be an important link in the logistics of the University Quarter in the future, including supply and waste streams.
Phase 1: The UvA expects to commence the execution of the absolutely necessary measures in the square (A) and the building sections (C and D) on Slijkstraat in the summer of 2025.
Phase 2: The UvA will initiate the preparation of the design process for the buildings on Kloveniersburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal in 2024 and anticipates starting the design process itself in 2025.
Phase 3: The restoration/renovation of building sections A (square) and C and D (along Slijkstraat) is postponed to 2035. This provides time to adjust plans as needed based on developments.
This shift in time means that the sustainability ambitions of the UvA for these buildings, as well as the desired changes and improvements for education (including a space for the University Theater) and offices for the Faculty of Humanities, will also shift. This includes the establishment of a well-equipped logistical hub for the entire University Quarter. Additionally, it will impact bicycle parking, and the UvA will further investigate these implications.
View the web lectures: Building Historical Research on OMHP and BG5
In-depth historical research has been conducted for Oudemanhuispoort (OMHP) and BG5, offering valuable insights into the buildings' timeline. Architectural historian Hans Vlaardingerbroek presents these findings.
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