In the heart of IJmuiden, a coastal town in the Netherlands, stands the Townhall of Velsen, known locally as the Stadhuis van Velsen. This architectural marvel, designed by Willem Marinus Dudok, is a testament to modernist design and post-war reconstruction. Completed in 1965, the Townhall of Velsen is not just an administrative building but a symbol of resilience and vision, blending functionality with a unique aesthetic that continues to draw visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike.
The Townhall of Velsen was the last major work of W.M. Dudok, a renowned Dutch architect whose influence on modern architecture is profound. Situated at Plein 1945, the building is part of a broader urban redevelopment plan for IJmuiden, which was heavily damaged during World War II. Dudok envisioned the Townhall as the centerpiece of a 'convivial square,' with a theater and hotel that were, unfortunately, never realized. The nearby Market Square was intended to be the 'economic square,' creating a balanced urban landscape.
Dudok's initial design for the Townhall dates back to 1948, but construction only began in 1962, with minor alterations made along the way. The building was completed in 1965, coinciding with Dudok's 81st birthday. The inauguration on August 24 of that year was graced by the presence of Princess Margriet, making it a momentous occasion for the town of IJmuiden.
The Townhall of Velsen is characterized by its modern, business-like appearance, devoid of excessive ornamentation yet exuding a sense of grandeur and authority. Dudok achieved this through strategic placement of the building volumes, a striking tower, and the use of materials with distinctive colors. The structure is a rectangular block surrounding an inner courtyard, with a slightly skewed facade to align with De Noostraat, providing a direct view from the building's front steps.
One of the most notable features is the council chamber, which juts out over the square on golden pillars. This elevated position is symbolic, representing the authority of the city council. The nearly 50-meter-high tower, positioned along the axis of De Noostraat, further enhances the building's commanding presence.
The material choices are meticulous, contributing to the building's representative character. The light brown, glazed bricks of the so-called Hilversum format form the main structure, while the front facade facing the square is even lighter, featuring extensive use of glass and white marble. The base of the building is polished Spanish granite, and the marble is sourced from Macedonia, adding to the international flair of the design.
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Visitors entering the Townhall are greeted by a low-ceilinged entrance area with indirect lighting, creating a welcoming yet formal atmosphere. The reception, elevator, and nearest staircase are to the right, guiding visitors towards the civic hall. This hall is a grand space, with a ceiling over 10 meters high and large windows that let in ample natural light. The interior colors are predominantly white and blue, with Greek marble flooring that features more intricate patterns than the exterior marble.
The lighting design within the Townhall is particularly noteworthy. Dudok collaborated closely on the design of the lamps in the civic hall, council chamber, mayor's office, and wedding rooms, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic throughout. Most of the light in the civic hall is indirect, ingeniously illuminating the windows and walls.
The council chamber is designed with the college seated against the long west wall, while the council members form a wide circle around them. The public gallery is situated on a balcony opposite the college, allowing citizens to observe the proceedings. Dudok paid special attention to the acoustics in the council chamber, ensuring clear communication during meetings.
On the same level as the council chamber, the offices of the aldermen and mayor are located along Plein 1945. The corridor between these offices and the inner courtyard is wider and more carefully designed than other hallways, featuring free-standing columns adorned with small, square mother-of-pearl mosaics. The aldermen's offices include built-in wardrobes with space for coats and a hat shelf, while the mayor's office, with its expansive view of Plein 1945 and De Noostraat, receives the most attention. A 'hidden' door, camouflaged to blend with the surrounding paneling, adds an element of intrigue to the mayor's office.
In 1993, the Townhall of Velsen was expanded with a new wing designed by Greiner Van Goor Architects from Amsterdam. The public entrance was moved to Dudokplein, and the new and old buildings were connected by a glass walkway, seamlessly blending the original design with modern additions.
The Townhall of Velsen stands as a beacon of modernist architecture and a symbol of post-war resilience. Its thoughtful design, both functional and aesthetically pleasing, continues to serve the community of IJmuiden while attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire Dudok's architectural legacy.
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