The architectural movement "structuralism," have you ever heard of it? This includes neighborhoods and buildings built according to structuralist principles. Or put more simply; smaller spaces that make up a larger structure. In this architectural style, small and large spaces are organized in tight, geometric patterns. Which gives them a very modern and quite ingenious look.
How did this movement emerge?
Structuralism was a reaction to the large-scale housing production after World War II. People wanted more attention for small scale and innovative forms of living and working. During the sixties and seventies this architectural period started and also in Amersfoort and its surroundings you can still see buildings from this period. Don't you have an image of it? Maybe you know the Russian palace, the bridge houses in Kattenbroek or Stad van Cahen in the city center? Theater Flint also belongs to this movement. And there are more.
Where can you find these modern structures?
To admire all these unique projects live, FASadE (Amersfoort's forum for architecture, urbanism and landscape) has created a cool bike route. From Kattenbroek to the city center, you can find and admire all the special buildings.
But also in Hoevelaken and Leusden you can find them. At least if you know what to look for. The route helps you with that and gives a little explanation for each building about the architect, history and special features.
Modern yet cozy
My ultimate favorite is the Russian Palace, I would love to take a look inside. I have already had the opportunity to take a look at the Hallehuis in Schothorst and was very charmed by this residential group with its lovely communal garden. There are areas for cooking and eating together and private apartments for retreat.
The way it is set up makes it feel like a mini-village in the city of Amersfoort. Now of course not all buildings within structuralism are residential groups, but there is a conscious focus in this movement on the possibility of being together and meeting.
Stay cozy
Did you bike the route from Kattenbroek to downtown? Then plop down at one of Amersfoort's many cozy spots for something tasty or stick around a little longer and grab a bite to eat at one of these organic restaurants.
Before you drive the route, I have another viewing tip for you. In this episode of "Here are the van Rossems" you can see a few buildings from the architecture route structuralism. Of course, you'll also hear what the van Rossems think of them.
More routes from FASADE
- The StrucTOER; assignment booklet for children in grade 7/8
- Mirror expedition through downtown
- The Takketoer; assignment booklet for children in grade 7/8
- Architecture tour of the work of C.B. van der Tak
- Architecture tour of the work of D. Zuiderhoek