Hello Zuidas maart/april 2023

HELLOZUIDAS.COM MARCH • APRIL 2023

66

SUZANNE KWAKKERNAAT CHIEF OF BUSINESS SUPPORT, HOSPITALITY AND FACILITIES AT DE BRAUW BLACKSTONE WESTBROEK

“RELOCATING TO TRIPOLIS-PARK FITS THE WORKPLACE DYNAMICS OF DE BRAUW AT THIS MOMENT”

I am Rick van Zwet I am Cooperative I am An Economic Geographer I am Strategic Advisory

Unique expert perspectives on the future of real estate #WeAreSavills It’s our people that make Savills different. Each and every one of them are expert real estate professionals. But above all - they have a personal approach.

Committed, driven, down-to-earth and solution-oriented. Working with you today, offering strategic advice for tomorrow.

Property starts with people

Preface

PREFACE

Next issue [67] 9th of May 2023

Hello Zuidas invests in trees!

How we do that?

Romy Lange & Eefje Voogd

Through our sponsorship for Trees for All, we plant trees

A VISIT WITH EEFJE VOOGD

that restore existing forests.

Inside her apartment, sky high in 900Mahler on Gustav Mahlerlaan, Eefje Voogd and

Our first Members Meeting of the year is

I contemplated the surrounding towers. Around a year and a half ago, her real estate

just around the corner! The Valley Open

agency, Eefje Voogd Makelaardij, was acquired by the world’s largest real estate

House on 21 March will be a wonderful

services company, CBRE. She is still closely involved as director and has no plans

opportunity to reconnect. This iconic

to quit any time soon. “It’s great to see big construction projects picking up again”,

building has been in the spotlight for three

she said, “because they’re urgently needed in Zuidas. Watching the skyline, you can

years and now we’ll finally get to look

see lots of projects we were or are involved in either brokering or consulting. That’s

behind the façade. Members will go on

always an incredible feeling.”

an expedition through the building and learn all about its users. What’s actually

Eefje is a familiar face in Zuidas and a happy local resident. “I’m also excited about

happening inside this beehive of activity?

what’s happening over in Ravel. That will be a low-traffic, green, mixed-use residential

Who are the people living and working

neighbourhood in the heart of Zuidas, mainly for families with children. It will be such an

here? Join us and find out on 21 March!

amazing addition to this area.”

Also don’t forget to send us your favourite sustainable initiative or company in Zuidas.

This issue of Hello Zuidas is devoted to real estate. As much as we’d love to know what

Registration is open now on

the near future holds on that front, we didn’t get any one final answer. We also talked to

www.zuidasduurzaam.nl.

Suzanne Kwakkernaat, head of Business Support at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek.

They are looking forward to their relocation next year, from central Zuidas to Tripolis-Park,

OLIVIER OTTEN

though, as Suzanne explained, getting everything ready is also a complex puzzle.

Managing director of Hello Zuidas

Our next issue of Hello Zuidas will shine a spotlight on Talent & Education.

Have you got something you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you!

Happy reading!

ROMY LANGE Editor-in-chief Hello Zuidas r.lange@zuidaspublishers.nl

Photography: Davide Gallery

3

Maakt Rijden Geweldig

VAN POELGEEST , BMW i DEALER IN AMSTERDAM.

REVOLUTIONAIR IN MEERDERE OPZICHTEN. Met de volledig nieuwe BMW i7 brengt BMW luxe en duurzame mobiliteit op de weg opnieuw naar een hoger niveau.

Deze grote - 100% elektrische - BMW combineert elektrische prestaties en zinnenprikkelend entertainment tot een onvergetelijke rijervaring.

De actieradius is overtuigend, de auto is luxueus en snel te laden én hij is duurzamer dan ooit te voren. De BMW i7 is revolutionair in meerdere opzichten. Niet alleen introduceert het een nieuwe designtaal en een volledige herdefiniëring van het 7 Serie exterieur en interieur, de elektromotor is ook volledig zonder zeldzame materialen gebouwd. Van Iconic Glow koplampen met Svarovski kristalelementen en verlichte contouren van de BMW nierengrille tot een bioscoopervaring met het Theatre Screen voor de passagiers op de achterbank. De i7 heeft het allemaal.

Laat u ook verrassen door de BMW i7 of één van de andere BMW’s bij Van Poelgeest.

Amstelveen Burg. A. Coiijnweg 6-8 1182 AL Amstelveen T. (020) 503 2300

Amsterdam Pieter Braaijweg 12 1114 AJ Amsterdam T. (020) 460 4690

I E

www.van-poelgeest.nl info@van-poelgeest.nl

Index

INDEX

06

26

60

24

34

65

06 Coverstory with Suzanne Kwakkernaat 10 Building the Future 13 Share #Zuidas 14 WTC AMSTERDAM 17 Column 18 Got a Minute 20 Property 23 Van Lanschot Kempen 24 Zuidas Hometour

26 Architecture 28 Agenda 33 SiS 34 Real Estate Special

55 Hello You 56 Sustainability 58 Yvette Watson 60 Adam Helpt & Leaseplan 62 Mobility 65 Hello Zuidas 68 Memo Board 70 Meet the…

Chief of Business Support, Hospitality and Facilities at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek A10 Zuid closed for eight days form August 5th Social Media

Always evolving to facilitate the latest occupier trends

by John Leerdam

What is your favourite building, and why?

“Ground floors deserve more attention from property owners”

Where specialism, a dynamic work environment and room for opportunity meet

“I always think: wow, what an amazing place to live!”

Django Building Don’t miss it

Going the extra mile in security and service Intro with AM Board Chairman Ronald Huikeshoven 36 Corporate Housing Living 38 Wonderwoods 40 aarts & co 42 N/XT 44 D&B 46 Legal - Taylor Wessing 48 1nergiek

50 Hello You 51 Hello Zuidas introduces 52 Finance

WTC Business Club – Brainexplainers Franc van Nunen

Horecava @ RAI Amsterdam

From waste lab to climate adaptation “I hope every sustainable initiative will enter, both big and small” Social inequality is everybody’s business From A to Zuidas Platform New Members

Zuidas Updates

Technical work planner Rene Tettero

“When interest rates go up, real estate values go down, and vice versa”

With an excellent business climate, world-renowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area.

The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions.

5

Coverstory

6

Coverstory

“RELOCATING TO TRIPOLIS-PARK FITS THE WORKPLACE DYNAMICS OF DE BRAUW AT THIS MOMENT” Suzanne Kwakkernaat - chief of Business Support, Hospitality and Facilities at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

take the lift up, head into your own office and after closing the door there are few opportunities for spontaneous encounters. Especially with people working from home more, we wanted to avoid losing a sense of connection and, when we added everything up, decided it was time for a change. Though we’ll be a bit smaller dimensionally, the layout will be completely different to what we have at our current premises.

There, we have loads of unused space and everyone sits stationary in their own room, whereas at Tripolis-Park we’ll have lots of collaboration spaces.

Relocations are always a complex puzzle requiring loads of time and effort. But

It’s much more geared towards

when you’re moving a whole office with a staff of about seven hundred, that’s in a

new, dynamic forms of working and

league of its own. As chief of Business Support, Hospitality and Facilities at De Brauw

wellbeing. Going into this process,

Blackstone Westbroek, Suzanne Kwakkernaat is guiding the law firm’s move from

we asked questions like: What are the

the iconic The Rock on Claude Debussylaan to the brand-new Tripolis-Park complex.

elements of a good workplace? What do

With everything involved in the construction of a new building, designing the interior

people need? What fits the phase our

and layout and coordinating a hassle-free transition to the new workspace for a

firm is in now? After extensive research,

massive workforce, Suzanne has her work cut out for her. Fortunately, she’s more

we decided on this property. Because

excited than anything, and although the company as a whole isn’t scheduled to move

of all the possibilities it offers us, mainly

until early 2024, she has been busy laying the groundwork for nearly three years.

for facilitating our people and creating a welcoming homebase for our firm.”

Suzanne, what should

Why did the firm decide to move

we know about De Brauw?

from The Rock to Tripolis-Park?

Lawyers tend to need their own

“For starters, we are a large,

“It was really a whole constellation of

space for concentrated work, so

independent law firm. The largest in

factors. The end of our current lease

presumably the new building is not

the Netherlands, in fact. Our business

was nearing, and we had to weigh up

just one big co-working office, right?

is mainly with multinationals and

whether the property still aligned with

“True. When interviewing staff to find

we operate both domestically and

who we are and if it fit us. Back when it

out what people need, we noticed

transnationally. So, we have offices

was built in 2005, the work dynamics

there was a kind of fear we’d become a

in London, Brussels, Shanghai and

were very different. Hybrid and online

completely open workspace. That was

Singapore as well. In my opinion, it’s

working were still unknown. At The

never the idea at all. However, when

just a brilliant firm to work for.”

Rock, you basically enter the building,

you’re working together on projects,

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger • Photography: Roxanne Wilm • Artist impressions: Hollandse Nieuwe

7

Coverstory

you do need dynamic workspaces. We

restaurants and lunch places in the

mobility, nutrition and technology.

also have more spaces to confer quietly.

area around Olympic Stadium, so I’m

Webinars, sounding boards and walk-in

And the flow through the building is

not worried. Although I can’t speak for

sessions allow people to be part of the

designed around a massive green

other companies, I have heard more

relocation and have their say. Of course,

staircase. That’s what connects different

are facing the same challenges and are

not everyone is as excited as we might

floors and simultaneously embodies

reassessing how they’re working and

have hoped for from the get-go, but we

that connection. It’s where people see

if their office premises still match that.

always try to listen and take everyone’s

and greet each other. What’s more, we’ll

For us, at any rate, the new location

input on board. Thanks to all of that,

have a fantastic barista bar and a great

lets us give our people what we want to

we’ll be able to create an amazing

company restaurant where people can

give them, and comes with facilities we

premises here that’s representative of

get together, and the building will be

don’t have in our current building. I can

De Brauw and our future. What I love

furnished with loads of plants and also

well imagine that if you’re looking for

about my role in this whole story is that

art , for which we are working closely

more space, this is a brilliant option.”

whereas in the first two years I mainly

together with FOAM and our architect.”

liaised with the builders, now I’m also How did people at De Brauw

sitting down with teams like HR and IT.

The neighbourhood around Tripolis-

respond to news of the move? Won’t

More and more people are being drawn

Park is still a bit empty. Do you think

many miss their own spot in Zuidas?

into the process, and that makes it fun.

other companies will be brave enough

“Sure, moving to a new location can

Now, we’re all heading for the finish

to make the leap out of central Zuidas?

be a rollercoaster. We’re well aware of

line together. And that fits De Brauw

“This is an up-and-coming location.

that and are trying to involve everyone

too: striving for quality and maximum

There are a growing number of

in the process on topics such as

results together.”

8

ENTERPRISE.NL

Building The Future

BUILDING THE FUTURE

A10 ZUID CLOSED FOR EIGHT DAYS FROM AUGUST 5TH From Saturday 5 August until the morning of Monday 14 August, there will be major traffic disruptions on the south side of Amsterdam. During this period, the A4 and A10 Zuid motorways will be closed from the Badhoevedorp junction to the S109 RAI slip road, in connectionwith construction works at Amsterdam-Zuid station.

For eight days during the 2023 summer holiday, the A10 Zuid will be one big building site. The roadway and a section of railway track outside Amsterdam-Zuid station will be temporarily removed.In order to slide two large roof sections for the

10

Building The Future

Amsterdam Zuidas Information Centre Central Hall, WTC +31 (0)800 50 65 contact@zuidas.nl www.zuidas.nl Follow on zuidas @zuidasamsterdam

second station passageway into position. This second passageway

New station passageway

is located to the west of the existing one, in the embankment over

This work is part of the Zuidasdok project, which

which the motorway and railway and metro tracks run.

includes widening and tunnelling of the A10 Zuid motorway and the complete renovation

Rescheduled

of Amsterdam-Zuid station. Construction of

The works were originally scheduled for Ascension weekend in May.

the second station passageway is a crucial step

However, to allow more than one weekend for completion, they have

towards increasing capacity at this busy public

been postponed until summer, when there will be less traffic.

transport station. After its renovation, AmsterdamZuid station will accommodate passenger volumes

In the direction of Utrecht

similar to Amsterdam’s central station.

To make room for the construction work, the A4 and the A10 Zuid in the direction of Utrecht will be closed from the Badhoevedorp junction to the S109 RAI slip road. The closure will start on Saturday 5 August at 22.00 and last until the morning rush hour on Monday 14 August. Traffic will be diverted via the A9 and A5 motorways (see map below). Although the road closure has been scheduled during a relatively quiet, low-traffic holiday period, drivers can expect significantly longer journey times, of up to one hour.

Questions?

Drivers with questions about their journey during the works can use the Zuidasdok Ask&Go service or WhatsApp. To get in touch: Scan the QR code, or start a WhatsApp chat 085 065 90 91.

During the closure, Amsterdam-Zuid station will have limited train services. Metro and bus services will run as normal.

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

11

SHOPPING TIME? GELDERLANDPLEIN, THE PLACE TO BE FOR A NEW OUTFIT, NICE GIFTS AND DELICIOUS MEALS

90 SHOPS & RESTAURANTS • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 1,5H FREE PARKING

GELDERLANDPLEIN.NL

Social Media

SOCIAL MEDIA

@oxfordbrookesconstruction Day 4 of the field trip to the Netherlands ...

@snahazel

@kimtarroe

#smalltalk #streetphotography ... @archfeed_ Valley I by @MVRDV

@depizzabakkerszuidas Bij ons op de Zuidas wordt er op vrijdag alleen maar gelachen.

@instamenno_ Uiterwaardenstraat met in de verte de Zuidas ... @hattawejspa

@suzannebrummel

Grand opening party at Valley ...

Zuidas op zondag; prima voor een klein rondje

@bartnikon2020

@robuustwijnen

@werkenbijcms

Op de Zuidas vind je de

... weer een groep nieuwe collega’s ...

Wijnboutique! @vosm1_thehappygardener Bringing you a bit of colour on such a misty day ...

FOLLOW hellozuidas

For employees of companies who are

Download the Hello Zuidas City App

@HelloZuidas

member of Hello Zuidas, it is possible to

Hello Zuidas has an app that allows you

@hellozuidas

join our LinkedIn group or link as a contact.

to flip through all the Zuidas news!

13

Business In The Spotlight

WTC AMSTERDAM Always evolving to facilitate the latest occupier trends

Martijn Kock

More than thirty-five years after it was first built, World Trade Center Amsterdam is

reach and we want to keep it that way. At

still the country’s largest office complex. And it continues to evolve as shown by the

the moment, we’re working on a mobility

most recent and highly visible office addition Tower Ten. Behind the scenes a vast

plan to continue incentivizing sustainable

amount of work goes into maintaining the building to keep up WTC’s high standards

commuting while also maximizing access.

in facilitating tenants and users. Martijn Kock, senior asset manager at CBRE

To ensure that we continue meeting the

Investment Management is dedicated to keeping the whole WTC complex running

needs and requirements of tenants.”

smoothly, together with property manager CBRE. CBRE Investment Management has What is WTC Amsterdam

through growth in time into, for example,

a strong focus on ESG. Can you tell

doing to accommodate current

an office space spanning two, three or

us more about that, and how it’s

and future office users?

more floors. And vice versa.

incorporated in the WTC Amsterdam?

“We’ve seen a massive shift in occupier

“For us, ESG and the E (environment) in

trends. The whole outlook on offices has

Of course, the building is only part of

particular, goes beyond obtaining the

changed, and so have tenants’ and their

the equation. The setting is equally

right labels for our buildings. So, yes,

employees’ expectations. It’s up to us

important. The WTC Amsterdam is in a

we’ve got a BREEAM Excellent label and

to respond to that by offering flexibility

vibrant location. A busy spot that draws

a WELL Certificate will be in place shortly

in a sustainable and healthy office

people in. Zuidas has that magnetic effect.

and yes we strive to become Paris Proof

environment. At WTC Amsterdam you can

This is good, but we still need to monitor

by 2035 for all our buildings. Though

start as a small one-man band in an own

mobility and transportation choices. This

real sustainability is about more than

office or in a serviced office and expand

area, including WTC Amsterdam, is easy to

that. Right now, we are working hard

14

Business In The Spotlight

“We have worked in sustainable energy transactions for a long time and ESG is in our DNA. Tower Ten holds a BREEAM NL Excellent New Construction certificate, so it is exceptionally sustainable on every front. Our Amsterdam office is the first in Eversheds Sutherlands’ global network to receive this certification.

We are proud to set an example.”

Natascha Geraedts partner in administrative law & environmental and planning law, Real Estate section head

on the social aspect of ESG by building

product do sort of sell themselves, too!

a community in the WTC Amsterdam.

We’re really creating an experience here.

“HOFF offers high-end, flexible office

We’re doing that through the Social Club

The continuous large-scale floors are easy

solutions for tenants of Tower Ten.

to connect tenants in many ways. By

to split up and all the facilities that you

Meeting rooms, day and project

organizing get-togethers for drinks and

would expect from us, but with a touch

workspaces and flexible expansions.

(sports) events, launching an office app,

more luxury, provided by HOFF Amsterdam

HOFF has it all and stands for the

as well as putting tenants in the spotlight,

as a beautiful business and conference

ultimate workplace experience,

for example, by dropping by for a chat,

location, plus offices with rooftop terraces

amazing guests with its one-of-a-

celebrating anniversaries by bringing a

and gardens.

kind, lavish hospitality and personal service. Like our motto says:

bouquet of flowers or cake... Labels aside,

HOFFcourse! We can do it all...”

sustainability is above all about forging

HOFF Amsterdam will be the first business

long lasting relationships with the people

and conference location with a 5 star

around us, and that’s something we’re

service level delivering an experience you

Sipke Feenstra

really trying to achieve.”

would expect from a 5-star hotel. And, not

Founder, HOFF Amsterdam

to forget, a sizeable bike parking facility for Tower Ten is the latest, brand-new

our tenants, with space for 1,400 bikes. It’s

addition to the WTC Amsterdam.

not just a bicycle storage, though: it’s way

How are leases progressing?

more than that. There will be bike lockers

“Very well. We are up to around eighty

for people with expensive e-bikes, space

percent in leasing commitments now!

for cargo bikes, a repair station and even

Of course, that’s because we finally have

shower facilities for the die-hard cyclists. In

something tangible to show, which is how

summary, it promises to be a new level of

it always works. As soon as the floors

convenience and comfort.”

are in and we can walk around and show prospective tenants the view, we’re off and running. And the location, building and the

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger • Photography: Caily Bobbie Jo

CBRE Investment Management Martijn Kock, Senior Asset Manager martijn.kock@cbreim.com

This is an advertorial of CBRE Investment Management EMEA AIFM B.V., (CBRE IM) an authorised investment fund manager.

CBRE IM is registered in the register of the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (www.afm.nl/register).

15

APPRAISALS, CONSULTANCY, SALES AND RENTALS OF EXISTING AND NEW-BUILD RESIDENCES

"We don't do ord nary."

A CBRE COMPANY

Parnassusweg 201 1077 DG Amsterdam 020 30 505 60 �nfo@eef�evoogd.nl

Column

COLUMN

Cutting across all the experiences and painful stories, there is hope as well There’s a question that has been bothering me lately. What does it mean for the descendant of an enslaved person and a slave owner to articulate the hope and future of Amsterdam and the Netherlands? On 19 December 2022, Prime Minister Rutte formally apologized on behalf of the Dutch government for the country’s legacy of slavery. The words and the emotions he expressed struck a deep chord. The whole thing was supremely balanced and both the timing of these words and their intensity made an impact.

Earlier this year, on 8 January, my colleagues and I set off for an exploratory trip – a work trip – to the Kingdom’s six Caribbean islands and Suriname. Among the trip’s objectives was to inform the islands and Suriname about and engage them in plans for the development of a Dutch national slavery museum. We also wanted to hear what local communities have to say and what they want us to take on board in the museum’s development phase.

What we hadn’t counted on when planning this trip to Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Saba and Suriname were the fierce emotions this subject would bring to the surface. That there are traumas still needing to be processed.

The processing of these traumas has hardly been broached yet, and neither have the different psychological facets. Those raw emotions laid bare each time plasters are ripped from wounds have to be handled with care.

John Leerdam is a Dutch film and theater director and former politician. He was a member of the parlement for the Partij van de Arbeid (PvdA) from 2003 to 2012.

The realization that there is unfinished business was a wakeup call for me and my colleagues. And yet, cutting across all the experiences and painful stories, there is also hope. Hope, because there is a younger generation that is obviously looking to the future and has explicitly asked for our help in education, in professional advancement of the museum sector, in entrepreneurship and for political and administrative development.

This younger generation is well aware that they have to cut through the pain in order to build up a new, shared future. For all the opportunities presented by Amsterdam’s metropolitan development and the construction of a national slavery museum, there is also a challenge for us, which is to include all of the islands in these developments. Even Zuidas has a part to play.

I feel blessed to be part of the team charged with formulating the foundational plans for an iconic building of Healing and Hope together. It is up to us to work with the communities both here and out there to create a building that will truly help shape a connective society.

John Leerdam social trailblazer

Photography: Nestor Tsakirakis, Studio Klijn

17

Hello People

HELLO PEOPLE

GOT A MINUTE?

Zuidas is transforming into a mixed-use area where people work, live, shop, eat, drink, travel and come together. To support Zuidas’ growth, more and more buildings enrich the area’s impressive skyline. Various shapes, colours, heights and materials make up for a diverse image. Our roving reporters set out to ask people in Zuidas: what is your favourite building, and why?

Anastasia Liskina - X5 Retail Group

WTC I-TOWER “It is mainly the interior, not the exterior of the WTC I-Tower that I like. Even though I work here very often, I have never really looked at the building from the outside. I like the common space, this open atrium, on the ground floor. The trees add a nice touch of green, and the warm lighting and use of wood give it a nice atmosphere. I spend quite a bit of time on the sofas and chairs here. Mostly to be alone for a while; to do things that aren’t work-related or to make calls.”

18

Hello People

Jordan Small - Student

VALLEY “I choose Valley because of all the plants and trees growing on the facade, giving it a spectacular green look. Also, I like the architectural structure. It looks like some kind of rocky outcrop.

I know the building from driving past it all the time and I always marvel at its beauty. I’d absolutely like to live there, especially now that all of Zuidas is being renewed. There’s a lot of thought going into the future and that’s really important to me. I hope more buildings like Valley will be built in Zuidas!”

Quincy Angkotta - Student

VIÑOLY “When I look at the skyline of Zuidas, Viñoly immediately draws my attention. It’s a big and prominent building in the heart of the area, next to the station and the motorway. I like the grooves running from top to bottom, like rivers Joyce Toeset - Robert Walters

running through mountains.

TOWER TEN

They give it a natural feel. Its

“The most beautiful building in Zuidas, in my opinion, is Tower

facade is almost completely

Ten. Aesthetically, I think it’s stunning. And also because our firm

made of glass, reflecting the

is relocating there. It will be the world’s first and most beautiful

colours of the sky in all shades

commercial office building, designed entirely on the basis of

of blue. Blue is my favourite

neuroscience. That aspect will be getting a lot more exposure this

colour. I walk past Viñoly every

year. We’re already immensely proud of it. We’ll be moving there

weekday and hope to be able

in May, and we will be located on the tenth floor. What I’m most

to work there myself, one day.”

looking forward to is the new building and modern interior. It will be a real community where people actually want to come work.”

Text: Sophia Etmans • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

19

Property

Tony Wijntuin

20

Property

PROPERTY

“Ground floors deserve more attention from property owners” Attractive locations offering a distinctive range of retail, dining, leisure, culture and public services are a widely held wish but fairly rare in real life. While Zuidas may have achieved major leaps towards becoming a mixed-use area in recent years, according to mixed-use strategist Tony Wijntuin there is still untapped potential for injecting more life into the district. As the owner of consulting firm WYNE Strategy & Innovation and a resident of Buitenveldert, he is both a frequent visitor and permanent Zuidas watcher.

Tony passes through the area several times

Back then, George Gershwinplein was still

location? These are must-haves to further

a week, whether on his way home, for

the quietest square in Zuidas, whereas

reinforce the dynamic here and give people

business meetings or to meet friends for

now Tony calls it the ‘frontrunner’.

who wouldn’t normally visit Zuidas specific

drinks. Precisely that mixed offering is what

There’s a variety of drinking and dining

reasons to come here.”

so characterizes Zuidas, he observes. “It

establishments, including the Michelin-

is a high-traffic location where all different

starred Bolenius, and there’s even a weekly

Together, such amenities constitute what

facets come together. Originally, it was a

market. And while Zuidplein and Gustav

Tony calls a ‘Morning, Afternoon and Night

full-on business area, but more and more

Mahlerplein may still get the most of traffic,

programme’, or ‘MAN’ (the equivalent of

people have come to live here. Amsterdam

Tony believes both squares are due for a

‘OMA’ in Dutch). “Zuidas is mostly dead

Zuid Station is a major hub and it’s only

revamp in terms of programme, identity

after five o’clock and at weekends. A

growing. This dynamic is rare, and creates a

and attractiveness.

balanced mix of commercial, cultural and

ton of potential for the future.”

social services and amenities could change “Many restaurants and shops have been

that. An added bonus is that the more

Pivotal squares

there for years or belong to a chain”, he

attractive the neighbourhood look, the

Eight years ago, Tony was already working

continues, “as well as being focused

more attractive the real estate becomes.

on a retail vision for Zuidas with the City

mainly on the professional crowd that’s in

Which means it also indirectly serves a

of Amsterdam. One key focus was the

Zuidas during business hours. And, sure,

commercial interest for property owners.”

occupancy of the commercial units on

it’s important to cater to that target group,

the ground floor of the buildings. Tony

but there’s not enough diversity. Besides

Afterthought

envisions Zuidas as a city centre, with

substance, identity is also important. The

According to Tony, when leasing office

Gustav Mahlerlaan as the high street,

building façades could be made a whole lot

or residential buildings, the focus still

Claude Debussylaan as a dwelling street,

more attractive. So, have windows people

tends to be on filling the upper floors

and three main squares: Zuidplein, Gustav

can look through, let them see and tempt

relegating ground floors to more of an

Mahlerplein and George Gershwinplein.

them to come inside.”

afterthought. Owners need to realign their

Wijntuin contends that these three

priorities, he says. “In its coordinating and

squares, laid out along a single axis, play a

Creative hotspot

facilitating role, the City of Amsterdam

pivotal role in the success of the amenities

Tony believes more social and cultural

could promote higher quality, diversity and

at eye level.

amenities would add tremendous value to

appeal. For instance, by stipulating specific

Zuidas. “Why not bring in a creative maker

programmatic requirements in tenders for

High ‘suits and heels’ quotient

space, pop music venue or an incubator

its land holdings. That turn Zuidas into an

A great deal has changed since 2015.

for artists as befits the character of this

even more dynamic location.”

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

21

Knightsbridge FOR AN APARTMENT OF. 60 M2, YOUR ENERGY COSTS WILL BE APPROX. €165,- PER MONTH.

Hyde Park N O W

I N

S A L E

H Y D E P A R K I S H E R E . C O M

From € 389.500,no transfer costs

SCAN ME FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N

Business In The Spotlight

Van Lanschot Kempen: where specialism, a dynamic work environment and room for opportunity meet Johnathan Leibbrandt has been working as a senior legal counsel at Van Lanschot Kempen for around two years now. In this role, he focuses on equity capital markets and corporate finance and works on transactions throughout Europe and the United States. When he moved to the Netherlands from South Africa a few years ago, it was to broaden his horizons and grow as a professional. At Van Lanschot Kempen, Johnathan found opportunities to do just that.

“Van Lanschot Kempen has a very sector-specific focus. This makes

a committee member of VLK Pride, Van Lanschot Kempen’s LGBTQ+

us a leader in the fields we focus on and explains why specialism is

committee, he thinks it’s great to be able to create structural

one of our core values”, Johnathan says. In his work, this translates

change within such an established and relatively old company.

to delivering personalized and bespoke solutions. “These unique

“We’re trying to raise awareness within the firm, and it’s great to be

solutions for clients require in-depth knowledge of the markets we

able to do that. I find this company has a really welcoming culture

work in to manage the transactions and cases we take on. I may be

where I can be my authentic self, also as an international, and I love

doing a rights offer in Sweden one day and a capital raise in New

being part of the Van Lanschot Kempen team.”

York the next. Basically, the work is very diverse, as we’re not just rolling out the same product or service to everyone. That makes it incredibly fun. But it also means we have to be all-rounders.”

Van Lanschot Kempen Beethovenstraat 300 1077 WZ Amsterdam + 31 (0)20 348 80 00 www.vanlanschotkempen.nl www.werkenbijvanlanschotkempen.nl

Being a decision maker Working in different markets doesn’t mean Johnathan gets to

Johnathan Leibbrandt

travel all the time – “unfortunately” – he says with a laugh. “Post pandemic, everything is happening online, so I work ofrom our Amsterdam office. But, obviously, we serve the rest of the world from here and I am connected to loads of different people.” When asked what he likes most about the organization, Johnathan doesn’t need to think: “Van Lanschot Kempen is really dynamic and agile. Organizationally, there’s a very flat structure. Everyone has access to the decision-makers, but you can be a decisionmaker yourself as well, which is nice.” And because they make transactions all over Europe and the United States, he adds, “we as professionals get to work and learn in areas and jurisdictions we wouldn’t necessarily get to work in at other companies. In my opinion, that really sets Van Lanschot Kempen apart”.

Welcoming culture On the question what Johnathan’s ambitions are within the financial institution, he says he’s mainly excited to continue the journey he’s on now. “Working in this dynamic environment as we take on new challenges, that’s exhilarating to be a part of.” Also, as

Text: Tessa Burger • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

23

Zuidas Home Tour

ZUIDAS HOME TOUR

“Riding into Zuidas, I always think: wow, what an amazing place to live!”

NYNKE POPMA (48) LIVES IN MILES BUILDING Nynke Popma has lived in Amsterdam for most of her life. She spent lots of time in the city as a child at her father’s shop on Ceintuurbaan, or visiting the Rijksmuseum in weekends. Though she left her beloved Amsterdam a few times in the intervening years – including for an adventure in another world capital, Singapore – she and her son have lived in Zuidas for two years now, and she couldn’t be happier.

Nynke, can you tell us about yourself?

“I work for an IT firm, where I’m in charge of field marketing for Northern Europe. I work from home a lot and used to travel quite a bit as part of my job. That slowed down during the pandemic, but fortunately it’s picking up again. I will be going to Copenhagen shortly, and trips like that really make my job great fun. My company is headquartered in Den Bosch and I try to go there physically at least once a week.

That’s where my teammates are, after all, and although I love my house and have a lovely office at home, it’s also nice to see people in real life.”

Did you always want to live in this area?

“Not necessarily, no. But, moving from place to place, I have crossed through Amsterdam-Zuid quite a few times over the years. My winding up here was actually totally spontaneous and not some

24

Zuidas Home Tour

long-held dream that suddenly came

What’s your favourite spot in Zuidas?

true. Zuidas was definitely an option, but

“Obviously, there are a ton of great

one of several. In fact, this house was

restaurants and other hotspots here, but,

already sold and only awaiting mortgage

to be honest, the most magical moment

approval, but my son urged me to phone

of my day is after a workout, riding my

the property agent anyway. We lucked

bike home into Zuidas down Gustav

out, because the other party’s financing

Mahlerlaan. I look around and just marvel

hadn’t come through, so then we got a

at the architecture and at how amazing

chance to view it. The instant we stepped

this place is. There’s a really great vibe

inside, I thought: ‘wow, this is really nice’.

and there are always things happening in

Especially because the apartment is

the area and people about. I love coming

so high and spacious, and my son feels

home to that, and it’s my favourite spot

completely at home here.”

for that reason. And despite the fact that a lot of people live here, the houses are well

If there were things in Zuidas you

insulated, so that keeps the noise out.

could change, what would it be?

It’s like living in a cocoon in the middle

“What really bothers me, to be honest,

of the city.”

is all the litter in the streets. Fortunately, we don’t have that problem here in our

Favourite spot at home

building because it all goes underground.

Probably the kitchen, as I love cooking

Another thing that can sometimes get

and having friends over to share it

under my skin are when people let their

with. Add some music and drinks,

dogs pee on the side of buildings and the

and I’m happy.

spots this can leave on walls. Of course, we live in a big city and things like that

Hobbies

may just be part of the deal, but it’s still an

Working out, having nice meals with

unpleasant sight, haha.”

friends, travelling and skiing.

Text: Sophia Etmans & Tessa Burger • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

25

Architecture

as one of the first residential blocks in Zuidas, the Django Building marked the beginning of the district’s transition into a mixed-use urban location. The building occupies parcel 8 of the Gershwin site, which was the first part of the Zuidas development area to concentrate on housing.

ARCHITECTURE

Django Building

26

Address

Gustav Mahlerplein 120-220, Gustav Mahlerlaan 411-523

Architect

KCAP

Developer

Consortium Royaal Zuid

Floor area

15,000 m²

Completed in

2010

Floors

9

Height

32 m

Architecture

The building’s main entrance is on

‘We wanted to go deep’

Gustav Mahlerlaan. It contains 108 rental

With its nine storeys, Django is relatively

apartments, six commercial spaces and

low compared to surrounding towers such

a single-level underground car park.

as the 29-storey Amsterdam Symphony,

The programme spans 15,000 m² divided

next door. “In Zuidas, everything goes

over two building sections, with a

upwards. By contrast, we wanted to

recessed courtyard garden and multiple

go deep, by creating an intimate green

Facts

rooftop terraces.

garden amid the concrete construction”,

• Django Building occupies lot 8 of

Han van den Born, one of the architects,

Zuidas’ Gershwin district, one of the

The complex was developed by

said of the design. Another interesting

first residential blocks in Zuidas to

Consortium Royaal Zuid, consisting of Era

architectural feature is the green

Contour, Prospect Zuidas and Bouwfonds

and blue-toned printed glass façade

• With its nine storeys, the Django

Ontwikkeling. The design is by the

ornamenting the two bottom floors.

Building is the lowest city block

be developed.

between the 29-storey twin tower

architectural firm KCAP. Of the total floor area, 13,000 m² is zoned for housing and

All of the apartments are oriented in

Amsterdam Symphony and the

the other 2,000 m² for commercial use.

two directions and have floor-to-ceiling

20-storey Duke Tower.

Businesses based at the street level include

windows. The building uses innovative

Van de Veer dental practice, Het Zwarte

thermal energy storage with a closed

Scan the QR -code

Fietsenplan, The Breakfast Club, Limon

source system, making the building

for more information.

and several other cafés and restaurants.

highly sustainable.

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Ossip van Duivenbode

27

Agenda

AGENDA

MARCH & APRIL 2023 8 March

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY International Women’s Day commemorates the first women’s strike in the textile and garment industry on 8 March 1908 in New York City. Women took to the streets demanding an 8-hour working day, better working conditions and the

Photo: Gert Jan van Rooij

right to vote.

9 March

BODY & FAITH: Simon Keizer and Hanneke van Laarhoven, with moderator Henry de Vries @ VU Amsterdam – www.vu.nl The ART SCIENCE dialogues explore

Through 2 June

how artists and scientists may inspire

ABN AMRO ART COLLECTION

each other and open the way for cross-

@ ABN AMRO – art-heritageabnamro.nl

disciplinary innovation. The dialogues are

The ABN AMRO art collection is among the Netherlands’ oldest and largest corporate

in English and free and open to the public.

collections. Born out of a combination of idealistic and practical considerations, the

No advance registration needed.

collection has grown steadily since the 1970s and now numbers more than 5,500 artworks.

9 March

LIVE MUSIC NIGHT IN THE MANHATTAN BAR @ Crowne Plaza

28

www.crownplaza.com

14 March

Step inside the Manhattan

FREE LUNCHTIME CONCERT

Lounge Bar and soak up the

@ De Thomas – www.dethomas.nl

spirit of a genuine cocktail bar.

De Thomas hosts free lunchtime concerts

Sip stellar signature cocktails

every fortnight. Always classical music,

mixed by our bartenders

always a different musician or ensemble.

while enjoying the live music.

This time featuring the Artvark Saxophone

For more info, email

Quartet, made up of Pedro Correia da Silva on

anais.sheshekli@ihg.com.

saxophone and Luís Abreu de Lima on piano.

Agenda

21-23 March

AMSTERDAM DRONE WEEK @ RAI Amsterdam – www.rai.nl ADW is the global platform for sharing knowledge, potential innovations and vital regulations. It brings together all the key players – big and small, commercial and non-commercial, representing a range of industries, knowledge institutions and governmental bodies – to co-create and work together.

14-15 March

INDEPENDENT HOTEL SHOW AMSTERDAM

2 April

@ RAI Amsterdam – www.rai.nl

I TRE CANETTI

The Independent Hotel Show Amsterdam is

@ Botanische Tuin Zuidas

the premier industry event wholly devoted

www.dichtbij.online

to luxury and boutique hoteliers. We strive

Enjoy a 20th-century classical French

to deliver a guest experience that goes

music recital by a trio consisting of

above and beyond the typical trade show.

clarinet, oboe and bassoon.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration from our sublime designers, innovation from leading technology suppliers or simply to discover something new for your hotel, you’re sure to find the perfect solutions!

21 March - MEMBERS MEETING

VALLEY OPEN HOUSE @Valley – www.hellozuidas.com

Eager to take a peek inside Valley? This is your chance! Hello Zuidas is hosting an ‘open house’ members meeting, with an expedition past all this acclaimed building’s phenomenal features. You’ve seen the outside. Now we introduce you to what’s inside: from anchor tenants to the

5 April

coolest restaurants. For more info, email

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR

servicepoint@hellozuidas.com.

@ Circl – www.circl.nl The Circl pavilion is a building that brings sustainable and circular design to life.

During this hour-long guided tour, you’ll hear about the practical side of circular construction, the stories behind the repurposed materials and how the Circl restaurant operates. The tour is in Dutch. Time: 12-1 pm. Register on the Circl website.

29

Agenda

Through 9 April

EXHIBITION: SOIL WORKS – WHEN ROCKS WEATHER @ Glazen Huis – zone2source.net In a growing installation utilizing her own body, Elena Khurtova explores our capacity to engage in a reciprocal relationship with the ground beneath our feet. The exhibition visualizes the process, whereby displaced soil is transformed into monolithic industrial ‘lego blocks’ and gradually degrades.

13 April

BODY & POLLUTION: Sissel Marie Tonn, Heather Leslie & Juan Garcia Vallejo, with moderator Henry de Vries and literary introduction by Nadia de Vries 5 April

@ VU Amsterdam – www.vu.nl

POLICY-WRITING WITH IMPACT

The ART SCIENCE dialogues explore how artists and scientists can inspire each other

@ Taalcentrum-VU

and open the way for cross-disciplinary innovation. The dialogues are in English and

www.taalcentrum-vu.nl

free and open to the public. No advance registration needed.

Policy is how you get things done. It’s how you solve problems and enact ideas. But how do you actually get your policy up and running? How do you turn your ideas

15 April

and advice into reality? Learn how, in this

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL

workshop about policy-writing with impact.

@ Happy happy joy joy – www.happyhappyjoyjoy.asia Come celebrate Thai New Year, aka the Water Festival. Join our big Waterfight on George Gershwinplein and enjoy delicious Asian street food for dinner afterwards.

16 April

PURE MARKT @ Amsterdamse Bos

21-23 April

www.amsterdamsebos.nl

PAROBA SCOUTING

Pure Markt is all about pure products, sold

@ Amsterdamse Bos – www.amsterdamsebos.nl

by producers themselves. They can tell you

The Paroba Regional Scouting Championships (RSW)

everything about the ingredients, origins

are back! Organized by the scouting association for the

and production proces. There’s also a great

Amsterdam-Amstelland region, the annual competition

range of one-of-a-kind non-food items. The

will take place on the Land van Bosse terrain in

market is free to visit.

Amsterdamse Bos. More info: paroba.nl.

30

Agenda

27 April

ORANJEBLOESEM @ Olympic Stadium www.oranjebloesem.com In the mood for drinks and dancing?

27 April

Oranjebloesem is the country’s

KING’S DAY

biggest King’s Day party. With multiple

@ Zuidas Family

stages and both home-grown DJs and

www.zuidasfamily.com

international artists, the festival is

Come play outside and join the fun,

the place to be for alternative dance

with face-painting, cake-on-a-rope

music with a Dutch touch.

and loads more games to play on George Gershwinplein.

See you there?

Bi-weekly on Friday, 3pm

ZUIDAS TODAY TALK SHOW @ Online – recorded at CIRCL - www.zuidastodaytalkshow.com LIVE every other Friday at 2-3pm, the Zuidas Today Talk Show is a weekly discussion platform for the local business and residential community. Host Ruth Jansen talks with interesting, inspiring, high-profile guests in the CIRCL studio in Zuidas. The show is a joint initiative of Zuidas Today and ABN AMRO & CIRCL. Want to be part of the live show audience? Send an email to: info@zuidastoday.com.

March through april

22 March & 5 April

EXPAT CINEMA MEET-UP

BUSINESS ENGLISH WORKSHOP

@ Rialto VU – rialtofilm.nl/

English fluency is crucial in international business. Would

expat-cinema-meetup

you like to communicate more effectively with your English-

Twice a month Rialto VU

speaking clients? Taalcentrum-VU’s language experts are here to

organises expat meet-ups.

help! Our Business English workshop will boost your fluency in no

Watch recent foreign language

time. The workshop covers two full days, from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30

Every Thursday, 9am-5pm

films with English subtitles,

p.m. Register now at: www.taalcentrum-vu.nl/zakelijk-engels

ZUIDAS WEEKLY MARKET

get together for drinks,

@ Gershwinplein

networking, discussing

www.zuidasmarkt.nl

and meeting new people

Every Thursday is market day in

afterwards. So join us every

Zuidas, when a range of stalls come

other Sunday and Wednesday

to Gershwinplein to sell their fresh

evening for cinema from all

wares. This is a long-held dream

corners of the world with a

of Zuidas residents come true!

common denominator: English

See you at the Zuidas Market next

subtitles. Check our website

Thursday?

for our upcoming events!

@Taalcentrum-VU

31

Luxe wonen aan de Oude Rijn in Leiden Het project ‘de Molen’ is uniek in zijn soort en biedt de mogelijkheid om te wonen aan de rand van de historische stad Leiden aan de Haagweg, direct aan het open vaarwater van de Oude Rijn. Met een eigen ligplaats voor de deur vaar je direct vanaf je steiger de binnenstad in. De ruime waterwoningen van 228m² zijn voorzien van een luxe keuken, vijf slaapkamers, twee badkamers en een dakterras. De hoge ramen zorgen voor veel lichtinval en direct contact met het water.

Comfortabel en energiezuinig Bij de ontwikkeling van de woningen is er veel aandacht besteed aan duurzaamheid.

De waterwoningen zijn voorbereid op de toekomst. Ze zijn volledig gasloos en voldoen aan de BENG (bijna energie neutraal gebouw).

Geïnteresseerd in deze luxe waterwoningen?

Kijk snel op wonenbijdemolenleiden.nl voor het actuele aanbod of neem contact op met één van de makelaars. Zij vertellen u graag meer over dit bijzondere project.

Vraagprijs vanaf € 1.400.000,- v.o.n.

Verkoopmakelaars Sense Vastgoed 020 - 471 19 04 • De Leeuw 071 - 405 16 30

wonenbijdemolenleiden.nl

Business In The Spotlight

SiS: GOING THE EXTRA MILE IN SECURITY AND SERVICE Erwin van den Bosch & Brian Schleich

two compare Zuidas to one big camping ground: “It’s so small and everyone knows everything about everybody else, so a good reputation really does matter.” Their approach seems to be working as they are receiving kudos from all sides. “In our industry, doing our job well is honestly the best form of advertising.”

Disaster drill What ambitions does SiS hold for the years ahead? At the rate they are going now, Brian Schleich and Erwin van den Bosch both have many years of experience in the

a growth spurt seems imminent. That’s

security field. From a long career encompassing almost any aspect of security, these

precisely what the company is aiming for,

are no industry rookies. Now, as respective operational manager and operational

Erwin confirms. “We would like to grow in

director at Specialists in Security and Specialists in Services (SiS), the two have

multi-tenant buildings here in Zuidas and

joined forces to facilitate all clients’ security and service needs.

further expand our service branch.” They also have an ambitious plan to mount a

“Supplying security personnel was a

leads to much higher satisfaction, the two

large-scale drill to test the district disaster

success, but we saw more potential. Now

say. “Our clients have enough on their hands

plan. “It’s important to do that at some point,

we extended our business to supplying

taking care of their core business”, Erwin

even though it means evacuating all the

office management and hospitality services,

continues. “They want to outsource security

buildings and herding thousands of people

we do it all”, Brian says with professional

or facilities services to a reliable partner

onto the streets. We need to know what

pride. “We dove full-on into the high-end

that can graft onto their company. Assigning

would happen and how the situation would

market. There are companies only take on

fixed people to specific locations, going the

play out.” And also, they stress, it would

security for supermarkets, shops and car

extra mile for our clients and growing in step

help make a start on dissolving the barriers

parks, for example, but we opted to go a

with the organizations we work with are part

between organizations and demonstrating

different route. We’re having success in this

of our appeal.”

that, in a security situation, you have to

market so far and this approach has brought

put the common good above individual

us to where we are now.” Erwin agrees,

Good work is its own advertising

interests. “It’s our job to help people at a

underscoring that the personal approach of

“We often go above and beyond”, Brian

moment’s notice, and this is part of it.”

SiS is a big selling point. “What sets us apart

adds. “Existing clients keep coming back

is that we don’t just plant someone who has

and often when organizations expand they

no feeling with a client.” And the fact that

ask us to handle security or facility services

clients get to know their people over time

at their location as well.” Jokingly, the

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

SiS Specialists in Security & Service Parnassusweg 819 1082 LZ Amsterdam +31 (0)20 308 54 54 brian@envido.nl

33

Real Estate Special

REAL ESTATE SPECIAL

‘NO MAJOR CRISIS, BUT A NEW BALANCE’ Area developer AM has long played a key role in Zuidas’s transition to a mixed-use urban district. The company has developed residential properties including Summertime (in cooperation with Bouwinvest), OpZuid, Xavier and The George (all in partnership with BPD) and is currently working with Equity Estate on Crossover. Scheduled to be completed in the first half of this year, Crossover combines housing, workspaces and amenities. The housing consists of 120 social rental units, of which 60 for students and 60 for refugees with residence permits. The remaining space will accommodate offices, cafés and restaurants and social and civic services.

AM Board Chairman Ronald Huikeshoven

buildings. That’s the future of real estate,

Staying involved

is proud to have achieved a true mixed-

because bringing a variety of functions

Another jewel in AM’s portfolio is the so-

use building in Crossover. “In the space

together enlivens and heightens the appeal

called Bajeskwartier, a new quarter being

of ten years, I’ve seen Zuidas grow into

of locations. We always say that ground-

developed on the site of the former Bijlmer

a successful district of Amsterdam”, he

floor space makes up 10% of the real estate

penitentiary in close cooperation with AT

says. “The next step is more mixed-use

but represents 90% of the value.”

Capital and Schroders Capital. It has been

Ronald Huikeshoven

34

Real Estate Special

“We have to acclimate to the new situation and find a new balance in how we calculate risks and returns. That all takes time.”

designed as a climate-neutral urban centre

sector. Interest rates are going up,

AM has high ambitions when it comes

for which 98% of construction materials

construction costs are high and building

to big societal issues surrounding

will come from the demolished prison,

labourers are in short supply. But Ronald

sustainability, quality of the living

reusing everything down to the cell doors.

is not overly worried. “It’s clear the sector

environment and health. In fact, it

This project is currently in full swing.

is in a holding pattern at the moment.

appoints a chief architect – similar to the

Also, a foundation will be established

Looking back over the past thirty years,

chief government architect appointed by

for the benefit of public space and aims

interest is still low. We have to acclimate to

the Dutch Housing Ministry – every three

to give residents influence over the use,

the new situation and find a new balance in

years for this very purpose. This is a real

design and maintenance of public space.

how we calculate risks and returns. That all

estate expert unaffiliated with AM who

In doing so, AM will remain involved in

takes time.”

oversees projects to keep them in line with the company’s high ambitions

Bajeskwartier for a longer period of time.

The current economic uncertainty has

and challenges to keep innovating.

AM’s role doesn’t end after a location is

however pushed real estate players to

Recently, Daan Zandbelt - urban

‘finished’. A year ago, the development

critically re-evaluate their activities,

planner, architect and partner at

company launched its own residential

Ronald notes. To ask questions such as:

De Zwarte Hond - was introduced

fund. “We want to stay involved and

are we building what the market actually

as AM’s new chief architect.

therefore retain ownership of areas we

needs? Are we making the right choices?

develop”, Ronald explains. “AM employs

To answer them, AM is seeking closer

When asked what he would do if he

place-makers whose job it is to give areas

collaboration with their partners, including

were chief architect of Zuidas, Ronald

an identity. They look at which uses can be

construction companies. “Their knowledge

knows exactly what his priorities would

accommodated there long or short-term,

and expertise is instrumental to all our

be: more mixed-use, of course, but also

for instance urban farms or restaurants.

plans. They can offer immediate input on

more housing for seniors and more

They always start out by talking with local

construction methods and which materials

public amenities. “A museum or a library

business owners. So, after spending eight

to use, for instance. In that sense, these

would really add a lot to this area. Also,

to ten years developing an area, it would

challenges are themselves leading to

there are very few senior citizens living

be a shame to completely leave it.”

innovations, and that’s positive.”

here. We call them ‘urban veterans’.

This is a target group that benefits

New balance

Chief architect

tremendously from these sorts of

Global economic and geopolitical

Of course, the need to find a new

public amenities, and that would

turbulence in the years since 2020 has

balance doesn’t imply concessions

make Zuidas an even more successful

irrevocably rippled out to the real estate

can be made in real estate quality.

mixed urban district.”

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Davide Gallery

35

Real Estate Special

Jouke Baaima & Michael Berendsen

CORPORATE HOUSING LIVING:

A new brand helping internationals find long-term housing in the Netherlands Corporate Housing Factory has long assisted internationals and their corporate employers in finding suitable lodging, but until recently was primarily focused on temporary and short-term accommodation.

They’ve now launched a brand-new long-term stay label: Corporate Housing Living. Co-directors Jouke Baaima and Michael Berendsen filled us in on this new project.

36

Real Estate Special

Until now, your focus was on helping

Where do you offer accommodation for

if we can do more of this on a larger scale.

people from abroad find the right

your Corporate Housing Living clients?

If everyone makes an effort, I think we can

temporary housing. With Corporate

Michael: “It may sound odd, but it’s basically

accomplish a lot. If all sides are willing and

Housing Living, you’re also facilitating

on request and theoretically, we can offer

they commit, we will get there.”

long-term housing. Why did you launch

places anywhere. So, we tailor to what

this label?

clients ask. We do expect to do more of our

Jouke: “Absolutely. There is a huge housing

Jouke: “Flexibility. We were getting an

own projects in future, which means we’ll

shortage at the moment, of course, but also

increasing number of long-stay requests,

be on board straight from the development

a large labour shortage. We need to find

for over six months, and wanted to be able

phase. That will also give us options to look

some sort of balance. Everyone is desperate

to cater for those, too. Demand was quite

more specifically at what’s available in a

to hire and trying to drum up people from all

high already but then got sidetracked

building and how to offer it. Our ideal would

over, including international. Which is fine,

by the pandemic, so now we’ve made a

be a building with both short and long-stays,

but you can’t offer someone a job and then

whole new start by setting up this label. It

but it really depends on what the client

say, ‘oh, sorry, the commute’s three hours

gives us the flexibility to respond to these

wants. That’s the leading factor for us.”

because there are no places to live anywhere nearby’. We are trying to help out with that.

requests from corporates and clients while also providing the sector with expertise on

You’re also specializing in housing for

And Corporate Housing Living also supports

furnished rentals and internationals.”

some specific professions, is that right?

people to settle in and feel more like locals

Jouke: “Yes, we’ve also been talking more

instead of ‘internationals’, so they can live in

Michael: “Right. We’ve already got the

with organizations that are trying to secure

Amsterdam and feel like ‘Amsterdammers’,

clients, because they come to us and we’ve

housing for professions like police officers,

for example. Our fully customizable services

been in the market for years. That means

healthcare workers and teachers who can’t

are designed to make people feel at home in

we’re on good terms with clients as well

find housing the usual way. We consult with

no time and help out with whatever might be

as being easily accessible. We were seeing

building owners or investors, and if they

needed, from finding a cleaner to questions

that more and more people are having to

want to come on board, we arrange the

about getting a TV subscription. With their

stay longer in short-stays because they

housing for people.”

home situation sorted and comfortable, tenants can focus fully on getting to know

couldn’t find their next place straight away. Since we’re well connected with

Michael: “And as a middleman, we can supply

both the corporate market and real estate

that housing demand faster and more easily

providers, we can match them up. Being

because we can arrange for a larger number

a single point of contact for our clients,

of places in a given building. It’s completely

they can count on speedy service and

different to making one-off arrangements for

assistance with whatever they need.”

individual people. Right now, we’re assessing

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger • Photography: Caily Bobbie Jo

the country and their new workplace.”

Corporate Housing Living Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b 1082 ME Amsterdam +31 (0)20 280 70 47 hello@corporatehousingliving.com www.corporatehousingliving.com

37

Real Estate Special

, elegant

WONDERWOODS

an bold and green real estate project Living at the top of the world in the middle of the city and at one with nature: that’s Wonderwoods in the heart of Utrecht. Rising just outside Centraal Station, the two new towers are slated for delivery in 2024 and will be the epitome of a mixed-use project. Besides sweeping views across the city, the two greenest towers of the Netherlands will accommodate the full spectrum of working, living, experience, meeting people, leisure, drinking and dining.

38

G&S Vastgoed and BMB Ontwikkeling

Jet and her team hope to help urbanites

recently merged and will continue as

rekindle their connection with nature.

G&S&. Every facet of the project is green

“It will be a green oasis in the city”, she

and conceived to restore the relationship

continues enthusiastically. “Vegetation to

between city dwellers and the natural

clad the buildings has been selected with

environment. “We envisage a community

the architects’ horticultural specialists

in which people, nature and technology

and is already under cultivation at the tree

coexist in harmony”, explains Jet Happel.

nursery.” This unique approach to literally

As head of Creative Development at

planting two towers, which will stand

G&S&, she is proud of what they are

75 and 105 meters tall, calls for special

accomplishing with Wonderwoods, where

maintenance techniques as well. “Several

Real Estate Special

Eefje Voogd & Jet Happel

“We envisage a community in which people, nature and technology coexist in harmony”

times a year, an expert team of ‘flying

his magic on the other, with five luxury

intended, with ceilings nearly three metres

gardeners’ will come abseiling off the

penthouses on the 20th and 21st floors

high and big windows to let natural light

roof. Residents won’t need to have green

offering unparalleled high-end living.

flood in.”

thumbs, because that’s all taken care of!”

“The penthouses in this new, living icon of urban architecture are unique in their

Successful collaboration

Plum penthouses

class and have spaces ranging from 110 to

Having previously worked together

A few penthouses with spectaculair views

just over 290 square metres. What makes

on 900 Mahler in Zuidas, G&S& and

are currently available for sale via Eefje

this project extra special for me is how

Eefje Voogd were eager to repeat their

Voogd Makelaardij, whose director is

the exterior and interior are dynamically

successful collaboration, Jet and Eefje

equally excited about the project: “It’s a

interconnected.” Nature is everywhere in

say. “Especially on a project like this one,

splendid project that I’m delighted to be

Wonderwoods, Eefje adds. “Even though

with state-of-the-art towers built to be

a part of”, Eefje says. The Italian Stefano

it’s in the centre of town – with lovely

embraced by nature”, affirms Jet. “We

Boeri, the world’s most celebrated

views of the Dom tower and historic centre

urge everyone to live in the city centre yet

‘green architect’, designed one of the

– residents are steeped in nature. With

surrounded by nature.”

two towers, containing six penthouses.

plenty of fresh air and a sea of daylight.

Roberto Meyer of MSVA Architects worked

Which is precisely what the architects

Text: Tessa Burger

More information: www.wonderwoodspenthouseandspecials.nl

39

Real Estate Special

Showroom Amsterdam

AARTS & CO INTERIEUR EN ADVIES:

Showroom Amsterdam

TOGETHER WE CREATE ENVIRONMENTS THAT SUPPORT GREAT WORK!

When your staff are always revved for another day at the office, you know you’re

connects with the human side of their

doing something right as an employer, says Jasper Broeders. As managing director

organization, and spaces that make people

of aarts & co, he ought to know. This interior company creates office spaces

smile when they think about tomorrow’s

designed to have employees coming to work with a smile every day.

workday.”

Jasper acquired aarts & co in 2002 with a

on life and also began rethinking what’s

Ambassadors

mission to make it a leading specialist in

important for the company. How we

In other words, aarts & co interieur en

creating interior designs and the delivery

see it; people make the difference to an

advies creates interiors that are not only

and installation of contract furniture. A

organizations wellbeing.” Jasper and his

functional, but above all an extension of a

mission that, two decades later, he has

team took this vision to heart in how they

company’s DNA. With a seasoned team of

clearly accomplished. But it wasn’t all

approach clients, and even created a new

over thirty Workplace consultants, interior

smooth sailing, the director says truthfully.

slogan to match: “Hello Tomorrow”, Jasper

designers, back-office and their in house

“I threw myself into my work those first

says with a grin. “It stands for how we

own installation team , they know how

few years and it eventually took a toll

work with each client to create an inspiring

to deliver innovative spaces that never

on my health. Then I changed my vision

and sustainable environment that truly

fail to amaze clients. On top of that, with

40

Jasper Broeders

Real Estate Special

Showroom Amsterdam

Showroom Amsterdam

Showroom Amsterdam

5,000 square metres of combined space

design of a space. I mean, sure, you can

and products to coming up with innovative

in Amsterdam and Tilburg, they also

churn out a bunch of six-person meeting

ways to re-/upcycle old furnishings. As

cater to a diverse range of companies.

rooms, but if our questionnaire shows

far as we’re concerned, the sky is the

From Microsoft and Facebook to EY, JP

that most meetings are just two or three

limit.” Witness a recent project aarts & co

Morgan and Loyens & Loeff, aarts & co

people, we can put that space to better

did involving a tender for a large school

has a large portfolio of clients. All of them

use.” aarts & co also always consults with

community. “They wanted to know what

satisfied, Jasper emphasizes, thanks to

the management about any other aspects

to do with old classroom furniture they no

a personalized approach. “Our clients

they want to change. “Surprising things

longer needed. It was classroom furniture

became real aarts & co ambassadors”, he

can come out of that, so it’s really good to

that unfortunately we couldn’t reupholster

laughs. “So far, all of our advertising has

do this questionnaire.” Having gathered

or anything we used our network to find a

been by word of mouth, which is in my

their input, our workplace consultants and

right purpose for these items and shipped

opinion the best way.”

interior designer go to the drawing board

it to Kenya to furnish the seven poorest

to create an interior design proposal and

schools overthere. Innovative projects

Needs, wants and wishes

plan fully tailored to the client’s wishes and

like this is what aarts & co is all about.

What’s involved in the process of designing

beyond!.

“Thinking out of the box with our clients: that’s what we love.”

an office interior? Jasper says it all starts with taking stock of what the employees

Creating Impact

of our client need in their environment to

“We’re also very focused on creating a

make great work possible. “We ask about

big impact looking at sustainable topics”,

all kinds of aspects that factor into the

Jasper adds. “From eco-friendly furniture

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger • Photography: Caily Bobbie Jo

aarts & co interieur en advies Cruquiusweg 111 C 1019 AG Amsterdam NL +31 (0) 88 011 27 77 hello@aartsenco.nl www.aartsenco.nl

41

Real Estate Special

TOUCH, LOOK, AND FEEL. That’s the essence of N/XT Dylan van Keulen & Jordy Vos

Discover the future of real estate with N/XT. With its cutting-edge 3D technology, intuitive interface, and real-time data, N/XT offers an immersive experience unlike anything else on the market.

Discover a comprehensive view of urban environments with N/XT - explore buildings, locations, and transportation with ease and in-depth detail.

Jordy Vos, and Dylan van Keulen, have a long history of collaboration at Parallel, an Amsterdam-based firm specializing in architectural visualizations, 3D animations, and interactive applications for built and unbuilt environments. N/XT, their latest endeavor, was created with the goal of providing a comprehensive and sophisticated solution for the real estate industry. “We wanted to develop an interactive tool that combines detailed information with great aesthetics, userfriendliness, and insightful perspectives on current and future developments, such as project phasing and nearby points of interest”, Jordy explains.

Urban scale The tool is beneficial for architects, property developers, agents, and public authorities in planning and presentations,

42

Real Estate Special

participation processes, rentals, and sales.

availability for leasing or selling. The

“We believe that real estate companies

“N/XT collects all relevant information

plot scale is perfect for detailed building

can speed up their sales and leasing

in the context of the urban scale”, Dylan

information, including sustainability and

processes by implementing this tool”,

says. “The tool is fully interactive, allowing

real-time sun studies. Additionally, the

Jordy sums up. “Public authorities

users to actively explore and discover their

tool features a drag-and-drop street view

can use it to provide the public with a

surroundings. Within a few clicks, users can

option, allowing users to virtually walk

comprehensive view of their plans for

access information about building design,

around and explore their desired location.”

a specific area. The possibilities are endless, and Parallel is not limiting its

distances to nearby train stations, airports, or surrounding cities, and view preset

Touchscreen

reach to just the Netherlands; our next

camera viewpoints. Unlike traditional

The tool by Parallel operates on a variety

goal is to take it to customers globally.”

prints or animations, N/XT provides a

of platforms, including laptops and

hands-on experience where the user can

tablets. To enhance its versatility, Parallel

explore at their own pace.”

has crafted a unique piece of furniture

Founded in 2018, Parallel produces

with a built-in touchscreen; perfect for

still images, 3D animations and

Plot and building scale

presentations, sales events, and trade

interactive applications for the (un)built

The tool offers users the ability to zoom

fairs. The unit and tool can be customized

environment. 3D-tool N/XT is the next

in and ‘slice open’ individual buildings for

to match a buyer’s specific corporate or

step in Parallel’s services.

a closer examination, such as checking

project identity.

out an apartment or office unit. Jordy: “The tool can be linked with CRM systems

Navigating the tool is effortless with its

to provide real-time updates on unit

intuitive menu bar featuring simple icons.

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

Parallel Schakelstraat 12-A 1014 AW Amsterdam www.parallel.nl

43

Real Estate Special

HOLOGRAM HOST BY D&B: A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE FOR EVERY VISITOR Jeroen Peters is the director of marketing and communications at D&B The Facility

value to the customer experience. Other

Group, a multi service provider for ambitious corporates and high-end real estate.

holograms couldn’t be livestreamed and

For years he had been turning an idea over in his mind about how to offer clients

used prerecorded videos, whereas the

a new kind of experience. With the Holobox, his vision has become reality. Using a

human dimension, personal service and

livestream projection, it remotely brings D&B Hospitality Hosts on-site to clients.

hospitality are the most important factors

Visitors to the World Trade Center Amsterdam are already being greeted by a

for D&B.”

Hologram Host, and it’s getting rave reviews.

Test lessons “The first time I saw a Holobox, I was

picture and audio connection. “That lets

How does the Holobox work? A live

amazed”, Jeroen remembers. “It was so

you have real interactions, which of course

connection provides a video link to the

lifelike that I instantly saw the potential

is what matters for visitors.” This was also

Hospitality Hosts, who are available all

for livestreaming to locations where we

a reason D&B had never experimented

day to answer visitor queries. Looking

take care of hospitality services.” Only,

with holograms before: they weren’t

for a company in the WTC? No problem:

there was one big proviso, Jeroen says: the

realistic enough. But Jeroen thinks the

the host can tell you where it’s located

livestream had to come with a two-way

Holobox is the perfect solution. “It adds

and how to get there. “We’ve tested the

44

Real Estate Special

“The human dimension, personal service and hospitality are the most important factors for D&B”

Holobox at two locations now, in D&B’s

fact help people get where they need to go

spot, the Hologram Host could briefly

head office and in the WTC.” Operationally

and give information.” Which means the

cover for them. “That would be ideal for

and technically, we learned a lot, Jeroen

Holobox is doing just what it’s supposed to:

mixed-use settings with housing, offices

says. “About things like location acoustics,

supplying what clients need and providing

and retail. A Hologram Host could take

since the microphones pick up a lot of the

personal service.

the place of a physical service desk there.”

And then there are offices and campuses

background noise, but also how to brief our hosts. It’s crucial for them to have a

Endless possibilities

that have multiple buildings or are so large

real sense of how they’re projected in the

In some cases, the Hologram Host could

they can’t possibly put reception desks

space when directing visitors or helping

take over completely from a physical host,

at every entrance or lobby: “In places

out with questions.”

especially at smaller premises, “provided

like that, you could put a Holobox at side

there are also connections enabling

buildings or entrances. The possibilities

Surprised visitors

us to do things like remotely operate

are basically endless. We think this

So far, the concept has been extremely

barriers and doors”, Jeroen notes. “What’s

technology has massive potential to

well received, reports Melissa Kooke,

interesting about this is that just one

enhance efficiency and user experience,

concept development manager at D&B.

physical host in the studio at D&B’s head

and hope to quickly expand it to more

She is equally enthusiastic. “It’s fun to

office could serve multiple locations.”

locations to impress our clients.”

see people’s first reactions. They tend to

Another use could be providing backup

be surprised when they realize it’s not a

or lending an extra virtual hand at larger

prerecorded film or artificial intelligence.”

offices or buildings. For example, if the

And, crucially, she says, “the hosts do in

physical host is called away from their

Text: Tessa Burger • Photography: Nina Slagmolen

D&B The Facility Group Melissa Kooke Concept Development Manager melissa.kooke@db.nl +31 (0)6 24 92 70 63

45

Legal

LEGAL

MORE AND MORE TOUGH PROPERTY CASES FOR TAYLOR WESSING The recent sale of the ABN Amro headquarters to the Victory

that combining a global network with extensive local expertise

Group marked the largest-ever single asset deal in the

makes all the difference: “Our wide variety of services and clients

Netherlands. Hendrik Jan Schimmel, who advised Victory

gives us consistent and sound insight into the market situation.”

Group on behalf of global law firm Taylor Wessing, calls it one of the most inspiring transactions of his career.

Tough cases Recent economic and geopolitical instabilities and rising interest

“Obviously, we always want the best result for our clients, without

rates have been massive game changers for real estate sector

losing sight of other stakeholders and the long-term picture”, says

dynamics. Hendrik Jan says he’s seeing an uptick in tough cases,

Hendrik Jan. “ABN Amro will hold onto the office lease until their

including a large number of renegotiations. “Buyers can’t always

new headquarters in Zuidoost are completed, and even after their

pay the price they initially agreed, because the financing costs

departure they will still occupy in a part of this amazing complex.

are too high. In turn, Sellers, including developers, can’t always

Redevelopment will commence after that, from which all of

deliver for the price they agreed either, because of the higher

Amsterdam will benefit.”

construction costs.”

Hendrik Jan is enthusiastic about Victory Group’s plans for the

And then there are the tenants, who find themselves facing rent

property. “It will be more open and greener, with a range of public

hikes as high as fourteen per cent due to inflation-linked rent

amenities from food to fitness, and with an ambition to go as far as

indexation. “They get hit twice”, Hendrik Jan explains. “By higher

including social attractions. They are also setting a very high bar

rental expenses plus higher energy costs. Owners often are willing

for sustainability and reuse. Though it’s not quite clear yet what will

to be accommodating, but it does mean renegotiating the lease

happen with Circl, if the building does end up being moved, it will

contract by, for example, extending the fixed term of the lease.”

be done with a clear focus on circularity and reuse. The way they are thinking about sustainability and social issues down to the last

Logistical challenges

detail is hugely inspiring.”

High land prices and building and financing costs, the nitrogen emissions situation and government regulation of

International network

local construction impact and programming are piling on the

Taylor Wessing’s real estate team advises property funds,

headaches for developers. More and more projects are getting

developers and corporate end users on all legal aspects of

bogged down in procedures. “If a developer has several parties

property transactions and management, including sales, leases,

interested in a new building, the procedures can easily take so

new construction and redevelopment. Hendrik Jan underscores

long that they bow out.”

46

Legal

“If a developer has several parties interested in a new building, the procedures can easily take so long that they bow out.”

All this has made good legal experience and expertise only more valuable, Hendrik Jan observes, particularly in Zuidas. Being a high-density location creates extra challenges because there is a multitude of actors that may lodge objections against construction plans.

The enormous Zuidasdok project is also throwing up logistical challenges for surrounding building projects. Developers have to know precisely what is going to be built where and when. With little room to accommodate construction traffic, materials and machines, projects in Zuidas need to be planned out thoroughly to stave off problems.

High ambitions Which is not to say it can’t be done.

According to Hendrik Jan, real estate players are ambitious to realise great projects and are putting in their best efforts. “And not all of them are deterred by regulations. Many investors and tenants have high ambitions for sustainability and liveability, and they want to be at the front of the pack. Sustainability is also high on the agenda of Taylor Wessing, which makes us a good match.”

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Roxanne Wilm

47

Real Estate Special

Laetitia Simonis & Eddy Tempelaars

Every weekday, 50,000 Dutch workers sit down at pristine desks thanks to the cleaning crew at 1nergiek. In the buildings Atrium and NoMA House in Zuidas, for instance. But for 1nergiek it’s not only about clean buildings, it’s about happy people: clients, visitors, users and of course cleaning staff.

Which is why you’ll never hear managing director Laetitia Simonis or account manager Eddy Tempelaars talk about ‘employees’, they speak about ‘cleaning colleagues’. “We’re all people, after all, not machines.”

1nergiek offers facility management, service hosts, window cleaning, specialized maintenance and cleaning services. Clients are mainly business services at high-end offices in Zuidas such as Allen & Overy, real estate companies, shopping centres, schools and cultural venues such as the Hermitage and Dutch National Opera & Ballet in Amsterdam, the Kunstmuseum in The Hague or the Markthal in Rotterdam.

Service with a genuine smile “We serve clients that are a good match

48

Real Estate Special

“IT’S NOT ONLY ABOUT CLEAN BUILDINGS, IT’S ABOUT HAPPY PEOPLE” with us, who want the best quality but also

“We build lasting relationships with

group of clients and colleagues. A conscious

realize that good quality on a daily basis

our clients. Total trust is crucial for a

choice to give the right time and attention to

takes time and attention to detail”, says

good partnership. We do our best to

everyone’s needs and wishes.”

Laetitia. “We also want all of our cleaning

seamlessly meet clients’ changing needs.

colleagues to enjoy their jobs, because only

They’re constantly evolving, and that

Good service is also reflected in a high

then does service with a smile have real

means so are we. You have to stay on a

standard of hospitality. 1nergiek’s

value. That is why many cleaning colleagues

learning curve.”

service hosts make all the difference at

stay long-term with us. Our specialist team

office buildings and retail centres. “Like

such as window cleaners is also employed

Among other things, that means being

a concierge, they’re the visible point of

directly by us, which is quite exceptional in

critical about their own services, thinking

contact for facility services”, Laetitia

this sector.”

about how they can do better and if they

explains. “They take care of all the things

are doing enough. “But also, we’ll be

you can’t get done by tapping some

Thanks to this philosophy, 1nergiek also

honest and tell clients if scaling down is

keys. Things like giving visitors, clients

boasts an exceptionally stable team.

possible. The rise of hybrid working and

and employees a warm welcome or help

Clients always get to see the same faces,

irregular office occupancy is making the

someone, accepting parcels, being there

despite the tight job market. “We’ve won

ability to scale services up or down more

when the lift repairman comes around or

an award for the best professional services

important. Our colleagues on-site are

mopping up a spilled cup of coffee. But

organization not once, but twice, based on

attuned to that and understand exactly

they’re important at an interpersonal

an annual employee satisfaction survey

what is – or isn’t – needed. So obviously,

level as well. They’re the face of the

carried out by the market research firm

we listen to them.”

building. And, of course, ours too. We’re

Integron. For the past two years, we’ve hit

proud of that.”

the number one spot with a 7,84 in 2021.

Learning from each other

And last year we received an 8,01 from our

“We rely on our strength and our cleaning

cleaning colleagues!”

colleagues are our most important asset”, Laetitia says. “That’s why, six times a year, the

Changing needs

whole team gathers for interactive sessions

Besides high quality, Eddy stresses that

to learn from each other. Regional managers

1nergiek also offers maximum flexibility.

furthermore each oversee only a small

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Caily Bobbie Jo

Contact & information Though the name 1nergiek dates back to 2018, the company exists for more than 100 years. Want to find out what 1nergiek can do for you? Get in touch with Eddy Tempelaars.

Eddy Tempelaars Accountmanager +31 (0)88 235 83 42 +31 (0)68 351 17 32 eddy@1nergiek.nl www.1nergiek.nl

49

Hello You

WTC BUSINESS CLUB – BRAINEXPLAINERS At the onset of January, WTC Business Club toasted to the new year with a glass of champagne in Ox & Bucks, but not before looking ahead with a special presentation

by Brainexplainers. The members of the Business Club were given an explanation about how neuroscience works and how our brain, the most complex and bestfunctioning ‘machine’ in the world, allows us to deal with the ever-changing uncertainties in the world around us. An interesting and above all fun afternoon in the WTC!

50

Text: Tessa Burger

Interview

HELLO ZUIDAS INTRODUCES

FRANC VAN NUNEN Supervisory Board

Franc van Nunen has been a key player in the VU/VUmc Foundation for more than 25 years. He was long active positioning the VU campus in Amsterdam and raising the university’s economic and innovative profile in Zuidas. Franc’s commitment and passion for forging connections have made him an instrumental member of the Hello Zuidas Foundation’s Supervisory Board.

Franc, how have things changed in the time you’ve been here?

education, research and the creation of social and economic

“I joined the VU/VUmc Foundation a quarter-century ago. Back

value. Our campus renewal is creating an urban campus that is

then, the university had sole responsibility for setting up and

sustainable and greener and with facilities for events, housing and

professionalizing its real estate, buildings, and campus and area

accommodation, sports and culture. The campus is the home base

development organization. Most of the campus had been built

and calling card of VU Amsterdam. I’m proud that we’ve had the

between the late fifties and early seventies at the city’s outskirts,

opportunity and ability to accomplish this.”

all but ‘out in the pastures’.”

How did you come to join the Supervisory Board In what ways is VU Amsterdam working

of the Hello Zuidas Foundation? And what is your role?

to connect with the Zuidas district?

“VU Amsterdam was one of the founding members of Hello Zuidas.

“The VU campus and Amsterdam UMC are in the middle of the city

In my job as campus director, I’d been involved in the foundation’s

these days. Through the development of innovation districts as

activities for some time and was asked to join when there was

outlined in the city’s spatial planning strategy, we’re working out

some reshuffling within the Board. Hello Zuidas is an important

ways to connect our knowledge cluster, university and academic

link for area partners and for joint initiatives between them and the

medical centre with work and residential life and leisure in Zuidas.

city itself. My role is to bring them together, based on my expertise

We are looking outward as a university and actively seeking

in issues around campus use and development.”

partners for collaboration, start-ups and knowledge-based enterprise. And, of course, a university is also a connection point in

Why should organizations join Hello Zuidas?

an international collaborative academic network.”

“Hello Zuidas connects organizations through a wide range of activities focused on substantive dialogue and issues of local

Development is ongoing at VU Amsterdam

interest as well as casual social events to get people together.

as well. What are you proudest of?

Olivier and his team give new members a warm welcome and

“The campus is a welcoming, inspiring and safe space for

introduction to the area and Zuidas community.”

Text: Céline Boute • Photography: Yvonne Compier

51

Finance

FINANCE

“ZUIDAS IS HERE After years of hovering at historic lows, interest rates have

van Banken, NVB) corporate real estate committee. “When

now multiplied threefold in a short period of time. “The real

interest rates go up, real estate values go down, and vice

estate sector is directly affected”, notes Roel van de Bilt, chair

versa. Real estate prices are under pressure right now,

of the Dutch Banking Association’s (Nederlandse Vereniging

including in Zuidas.”

“When interest rates go up, real estate values go down, and vice versa.”

52

Roel van de Bilt

Finance

The Dutch Banking Association (NVB) represents the shared interests of domestic and foreign banks that are active in the Netherlands. Members of its corporate real estate committee include ABN Amro, ING, Deutsche Bank, NIBC, Handelsbanken and Rabobank. On 1 April, Roel van de Bilt will transfer his chairmanship to Hein Wegdam, head of ING Real Estate Finance. From this date, Roel will also step down as director of Rabo Real Estate Finance.

TO STAY” The link between interest rates and real estate prices hinges on the

interest rate increase, but then they also experienced the pleasure

‘discount rate’ (disconteringsvoet), a percentage used to calculate

of interest rate decreases for many years.”

the present value of future cash flows. The discount rate is based on the interest rate. If interest rates rise, that has huge implications

Shift towards prime locations

for investors, because it makes borrowing more expensive. And

The property market has a large number of submarkets, including

that weighs on their real estate budgets.

housing, office, retail and commercial real estate. Rising interest rates affect each of these sectors differently. In the office market,

Out of balance

Roel says he has already noticed some shifts. Demand for less

Not so long ago, borrowing was practically free. Investors were

desirable office locations is waning as prime locations become

banking on rates of around 1.5 per cent, compared to 4.5 per cent

more popular.

or higher nowadays. “The real estate market is out of balance”, Roel sums up. “Real estate buyers are factoring in the new rates, but

“Second-rate office locations are the first to have taken a hit from

many sellers can’t and/or don’t want to yet. That has put a damper

the drop in office demand, resulting from hybrid working. That

on transactions and the volume of investments.”

doesn’t include Zuidas, of course, which is one of the best. When I step outside and see how much talent is concentrated here and

Roel predicts that if interest rates stay at the current level or go

the positive vibe of this place, I’m fully convinced that Zuidas is

even higher, which is what current ECB policy suggests will happen,

here to stay.”

sellers will automatically start lowering their prices. They’ll have to, if they want buyers to bite. “The market will remain turbulent this

Sustainability

year for sure, but we’ll reach a new equilibrium.”

As of January, office premises are required to have an energy label of ‘C’ or higher. Many office owners are actually aiming

Pleasure and pain

substantially higher. Roel expects sustainability will become

Historically, interest rates are still far shy of old records. The

a key differentiating factor for real estate value. “Sustainable

problem as such is not so much the height as the speed at which

properties will quite likely devalue less or even increase in

rates are rising. “Some real estate sector players have relatively

value over the next few years. Sustainability is becoming the

short-term investment horizons. If you bought a building two years

norm. All banks are also endorsing it in their financing policies.

ago, it might be worth less now. So they’re feeling the pain of this

Sustainability is a huge priority.”

Text: Ramon Holle • Photography: Davide Gallery

53

Members Meeting

Intrigued about what’s happening inside Valley?

Join us on an expedition and get to see all the hotspots!

OPEN HOUSE VALLEY MEMBER MEETING Zuidas, March 21st 2023 15:00 – 18:00 hours More information servicepoint@hellozuidas.com +31 (0)20 333 74 41 * members only

54

Hello you

HORECAVA @RAI AMSTERDAM Horecava was back at the RAI in early January. Industry professionals from the food,

beverage and hotel world gathered for a programme featuring competitions with starred chefs, speakers and presentations.

Text: Sophia Etmans • Photography: Horecava

55

Sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY

FROM WASTE LAB TO CLIMATE ADAPTATION

So many sustainable initiatives are unfolding in Zuidas Reducing the district’s environmental impact is an ambition shared by many. Green Business Club Zuidas and its seventy active member organizations are tackling a range of sustainability issues in Zuidas. Here, we share some current projects.

Elbow-deep in rubbish Last month it was time again for an avid crew of Zuidas professionals to dig into their offices’ residual waste. Not your usual start to the working week! Employees of ABN AMRO, Arcadis, Financial Offices and NautaDutilh gathered up rubbish-filled bin bags and got to work sorting through the contents under the guidance of Ecosmart, part of Renewi. Do teabags belong on the rubbish heap, or with organic matter? And that oil-stained pizza box from a late night at the office last week: recyclable paper, or plain old trash? There was also a Waste

Impact Cafés on CSR/ESG policy

Lab in which participants got a hands-on

Every six months, GBC organizes an Impact Café to bring members together and offer

demo of rubbish-related improvements

inspiration on CSR/ESG policy-related topics. The latest edition focused on House of

to apply in the workplace. The Waste Lab

Hospitality and highlighted the persistent gap between Zuidas and young people with

was offered as part of Zero Waste Zuidas,

vocational qualifications. ISS has been working hard at PwC and Accenture to narrow this

a project to make Zuidas waste-free by

gap in recent years. Edwin Klinkert of ISS and student Nadine Henningheim shared both

2030, jointly launched by Green Business

sides of their experience with this project, which helps young people find their fit in the

Club Zuidas and the Amsterdam Economic

workplace and offers prospects for work placements, advanced training and employment.

Board. Other Green Business Clubs and

There was also time for a joint brainstorming session in which participants considered

Rijkswaterstaat’s VANG Buitenshuis

what companies in Zuidas can do to help young people find jobs. They talked about the

programme are also actively involved in

obstacles and opportunities, including the pressures that the labour market shortage and

this mission.

other issues are putting on companies.

56

Sustainability

Circular HUB in Zuidas?

How can vacant plots in Zuidas be put to sustainable use? The Community Garden is one great example, but there’s another interesting possibility in the offing: a circular hub in Zuidas! How awesome would that be?! A showcase for circularity that’s open to the Zuidas community, with space for innovations by waste sector partners BNext.nl, Milieu Service Nederland and Renewi, and a spot to get a taste of circularity. In January, a group of Green Business Club Zuidas members, including the collectors mentioned above, ABN AMRO, RAI and Baker McKenzie, met with Amsterdam officials to brainstorm ideas for the temporary use of the vacant section of the Vivaldi zone. To be continued!

Circular Procurement Accelerator, round two In 2022, over sixty participants completed the first run of the Circular Procurement Accelerator developed by PHI Factory.

Results of this pilot were positive, so now it’s time for round two.

Companies interested in future-forward procurement can sign up now. Purchasing professionals get theoretical knowledge that is directly applicable, in a fun format with active guidance and digital introductions to each theme. The next CPA starts in the third week of March and runs for 16 weeks. There are still some spots available.

Young professionals unite for sustainability Young professionals in Zuidas created their own core team within GBC last year. For their first theme they chose the ‘protein transition’ (about swapping animal proteins out for plant-based alternatives, for example in all company restaurants) which will be fleshed out into a project this year. More ideas were flying at a recent Young GBC gathering for drinks and networking. Such as to tie in with the Dutch Week Without Meat & Dairy, starting 6 March, for which GBC Zuidas has partnered with area catering suppliers. With food accounting for thirty per cent of the average organization’s carbon footprint in

For information about other projects on themes including the transition

Zuidas, offices can make a big difference in

to plant-based proteins, climate adaptation, logistics in Zuidas and energy

their cafeterias!

conservation progress, visit greenbusinessclub.nl/zuidas

Text: Cathelijne Cras

57

Interview

“I HOPE EVERY SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVE WILL ENTER, BOTH BIG AND SMALL” Yvette Watson

Yvette Watson has always been passionately committed to societal and environmental issues, even as a child. At the age of eight, she was already carrying a banner for Greenpeace. These days, she is less of an activist and believes more in being an ‘activator’. Through her companies PHI Factory and the online gamified learning platform The 2B Collective, Yvette hopes to inspire as many people and organizations as possible to be as sustainable and innovative as they can be. With these credentials, it’s little wonder that she was invited to be one of the judges for the first edition of the Zuidas Sustainability Award last year. And she was elected again this year, now as the panel’s chair.

Yvette’s mission is to enable people

“We were introduced by her old boss”,

Fast forward to today, and PHI Factory

to make the right choices. These days,

Yvette recalls. “He saw me speaking

has 18 employees and advises a range

however, her approach is different. “I

on stage and said, ‘you two need to

of companies and stakeholders on

used to be more radical”, she admits with

meet’. There was an immediate spark of

sustainability issues. “Our main focus lies

a smile. “But, over the years, I saw that

recognition, and I asked her if she wanted

on putting all those great government

activism can also cost you people, so now

to start a company together that very

and industry sustainability ambitions into

I’m focused on making connections.”

same day. We share the same vision and

practice. In practical projects and solutions,

ambition, but at the same time we’re

with effects that have measurable impact.

Spark

complete opposites. She’s super organized

The only way you can change the system is

Just over seven years ago, Yvette started

and a real go-getter, while I’m creative

by defining in concrete terms what you’re

PHI Factory with her business partner

and love developing new concepts for real

going to do differently tomorrow and the

Geerke Versteeg. The two clicked on sight.

systemic change.”

day after relative to yesterday.”

58

Interview

According to Yvette, there has been an

member of the national Green Business

project. But that goes also for young

overall change in approach over time.

Club Advisory Board, Ruth Jansen of the

professionals who are striking out on

“Twenty years ago, getting organizations to

Zuidas Today Talk Show, and Chahat

their own here and organizations that are

move at all was difficult. Now, everybody’s

Gawdi, MSc Global Environmental

offering ecological walks in the district.”

moving, but all in different directions. We

Governance, Sustainability & Climate

look at what an organization needs to

Change and outreach manager for the

Yvette can’t wait to see all the

achieve their objective and we make plans

Green Office VU.

submissions and initiatives in Zuidas.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a big project or a

accordingly.”

“This award is important because it’s a way

small initiative. I’m hoping that projects

2023 Sustainability Award

to inspire each other with all the amazing

which think they’re too small right now

With her passion for sustainability, Yvette

projects in Zuidas”, Yvette underscores.

will actually enter the competition. My

is thrilled to be on the judging panel

“The new AFC clubhouse is a great

message to everyone is: don’t be shy, tell

for the second edition of the Zuidas

example. The sustainable building that

us what you’re doing! No matter how big

Sustainability Award; as its chair, this time.

the football club created here sets such a

or small. The more entries we get, the

Other returning members are Margreet van

brilliant example! Another great initiative

more we mau accomplish.”

Gastel, chair of the Economic Affairs and

in Zuidas is the RAI. They are doing so

Climate/Netherlands Enterprise Agency

much with sustainable and local suppliers

Advisory Committee on Heating and

through their ‘heart-warming Amsterdam’

Text: Gordana Todorovic

Read more about the 2023 Zuidas Sustainability Award on: www.zuidasduurzaam.nl

59

Business In The Spotlight

ADAM HELPT & LEASEPLAN: SOCIAL INEQUALITY IS EVERYBODY’S BUSINESS

Tessa Peetoom, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

volunteering be an essential part of a company’s ESG strategy?

at LeasePlan, and Melissa Maikoe, Corporate Volunteering

Tessa: “Everybody should be able to participate in society, and we

Manager at Adam Helpt, talk about the importance of

must create the right conditions for that to happen. By implementing

corporate volunteering and why a social impact day would

a well-defined volunteering policy and stimulating employees to

be a great start to bring a company, its employees and

engage socially, companies ‘walk the walk’ in partnering with the

communities closer together.

communities in which they’re based and help create more socially responsible citizens. At LeasePlan, our employees are entitled to at

Tessa, what does ‘volunteering’ mean to you?

least half a day off to spend on volunteering activities every year,

Tessa: “Volunteering is about minding social gaps and building

resulting in over 32,000 hours dedicated to different good causes.

bridges. We usually spend most of our time with people who have a

We want to signal our employees that it is important to make time to

similar background and a comparable lifestyle. That’s why we tend

contribute and give back to society. At the same time, we offer them

to forget that things like living in a secure neighborhood, having

the opportunity to grow and find a sense of purpose in life that goes

enough food in the fridge and going on holiday are a privilege.

beyond a paycheck.”

Volunteering makes us shift our perspectives by stepping out of this ‘bubble’, providing help where needed and thus creating

Melissa, you coordinate corporate volunteering activities daily.

meaningful connections – not only with the community, but also

Why are corporate volunteers so important for our communities?

our colleagues.”

Melissa: “Without the help of volunteers, many services and opportunities in our communities would not be so readily available.

You were responsible for the roll out of a new corporate

By donating a few hours of their time, volunteers ensure that

volunteering policy at LeasePlan. Why should corporate

children go to school with a proper lunch, or that homeless people

60

Business In The Spotlight

Tessa Peetoom

Melissa Maikoe

are provided with a warm meal. When taking elderly people out for

we have organised four different volunteering activities in an

a nice walk or organizing a afternoon full of games for people with

underprivileged neighborhood in Amsterdam. Based on their

special needs, they do not only provide people with joyful moments,

interest, the eighty participants could choose between gardening

but also assist health personnel who lack the time for it. That being

activities at an inclusive petting farm, painting rooms at a family

said, corporate volunteers are not replacing paid personnel, but help

shelter, helping out at a thrift shop and rejuvenating a kid’s

social change forward by contributing to the well-being of vulnerable

playground.”

people and making them feel acknowledged.”

Tessa, what is your most touching You recently coordinated a social impact day for LeasePlan.

memory of the LeasePlan volunteer day?

What makes an impact day such an effective way to

Tessa: “When volunteering at the playground, some of the

enhance engagement in corporate volunteering?

neighborhood kids stood at the edge watching with big round eyes

Melissa: “In general, an impact day is an approachable way to

while we were moving bags with fresh sand to renew their sandpit

introduce employees to volunteering and get them enthusiastic

and making it a safe place to play. As soon as we were done, they

about it. Because the entire company attends such a day,

immediately jumped on the seesaw with a big smile. That was

employees do not want to miss out on that. Another advantage is

amazing to witness..”

that people from different teams and departments come together to volunteer. This allows them to get to know each other better outside the formal office setting. At Adam Helpt, we organise team building activities and impact days for group sizes, varying from six up to six hundred corporate volunteers. For LeasePlan,

Text: Leonine Brunink • Photography: leo.estrellagraphy and Erik Dopper

Adam Helpt Are your interested in organizing a volunteering activity or impact day for your team or company?

Melissa is always happy to help. +31 (0)20 244 01 98 info@adamhelpt.nl www.adamhelpt.nl

61

Mobility

MOBILITY

FROM A TO ZUIDAS PLATFORM

From A to Zuidas is a platform in which Green Business Club Zuidas, ORAM, the Zuidas Accessibility Task Force, AmsterdamZuidas district, Breikers and Hello Zuidas are working together to promote sustainable mobility to and from Zuidas.

Sounding board It is in this context that the first meeting of our sounding board was

What does From A to Zuidas do?

held in coordination with the Zuidas Accessibility Task Force on

Many organizations in Zuidas are involved in sustainable mobility,

10 January. The meeting discussed different local organizations’

and even more in mobility initiatives and solutions. From A to

responsibilities and objectives. The main question was how we

Zuidas was set up to synergize all these various access and

can collectively maintain a high level of access in Zuidas in the

mobility endeavours. Above all, the aim is to facilitate employers

face of ongoing development. The group identified a wide range of

and commuters, offer a clear and comprehensive overview of

challenges and opportunities that will be discussed further as we

options, and thereby help everyone quickly and easily connect to

continue working out these plans in the months ahead.

the right mobility solutions and partners. Find out more on the website: www.vanatotzuidas.nl To be continued...

Zuidas is gearing up for some major changes in the years ahead,

Several sounding board meetings are being held in 2023 to

targeting both infrastructure and use. Designing a sound mobility

flesh out a personal mobility model with and for employers.

programme in cooperation with employers to improve local

If you would like to take part, get in touch with Rinske Berg,

connectivity and sustainability is therefore crucial. From A to

Mobility & Accessibility project manager at Hello Zuidas:

Zuidas has been actively working to involve area employers in

rinske.berg@hellozuidas.com.

developing this long-term programme.

62

Mobility

Zuidas Accessibility Task Force members go cycling!

New developments are transforming Amsterdam-Zuidas practically every minute.

In February, members of the Zuidas Accessibility Task Force jumped on their bikes to take a closer look at these developments, under the expert guidance of area managers Maarten van Ettekoven and Thomas Bokeloh, who both work for the city. Our bicycle tour took us past a variety of construction projects and sparked discussions about attendant disruptions, problems and safety issues.

From A to Zuidas is a platform in which

TASKFORCE BEREIKBAARHEID ZUIDAS

Green Business Club Zuidas, ORAM, the

The Zuidas Accessibility Task Force is an

Zuidas Accessibility Task Force, Amsterdam-

alliance between government and industry

Zuidas district, Breikers and Hello Zuidas

partners established to foster discussion

work together to promote sustainable

about access to Zuidas. Member companies

mobility to and from Zuidas.

take part in the Task Force as users of the area with a responsibility for maintaining

Scan the QR-code

good access to Zuidas. The Zuidas

for more info or go to

Accessibility Task Force is part of the From A

www.vanatotzuidas.nl

to Zuidas (Van A tot Zuidas) platform.

Text: Rinske Berg • Photography: Elisa Schouten

For more information about the Taskforce and its activities, please contact Rinske Berg, secretary of the Zuidas Accessibility Taskforce: rinske.berg@hellozuidas.com

63

Q UATR E BR A S PA R K IS E E N O NT W I K K E L I N G VA N

Groots wonen dichtbij de Zuidas

Schrijf je in en vind je ideale woning

Wonen in Quatrebras Park is groots! Vlakbij de Zuidas en dichtbij de stad heb je in Badhoevedorp alle ruimte. Quatrebras Park biedt je een comfortabel en toekomstbestendig thuis, maar wel in stijlvolle jaren ’30 architectuur. Alle woningen worden energieneutraal gebouwd op eigen grond.

Ze zijn gasloos en worden voorzien van een warmtepomp en zonnepanelen. Samen met de hoogwaardige isolatie zorgt dit voor lage energiekosten (energielabel A+++). Groots genieten begint direct doordat de woningen standaard met complete keuken en ingerichte badkamer worden opgeleverd.

Deze kun je tijdens je bezoek aan Homestudios nog helemaal naar eigen smaak en wensen aanpassen.

In Quatrebras Park woon je stijlvol met het comfort van nu. Vind je ideale vrijstaande woning, hoekwoning, rijwoning of twee-onder-één-kapwoning op Quatrebrasbadhoevedorp.nl

INTERIEURIMPRESSIE WONINGTYPE PERCE NEIGE

INTERIEURIMPRESSIE WONINGTYPE PAVOT

New Members

NEW MEMBERS

Hello Zuidas welcomes the following new members

STRANDZUID

PAPA’S LOFT HOUSE

Sector: Restaurants and events

Sector: Hospitality

Employees: about 30 FT’ers

Number of employees: 5-10

Link with Zuidas: At a surprising location behind RAI Amsterdam,

Link with Zuidas: We are located right next to the Zuidas, at

you will find the most versatile location in Amsterdam. Strandzuid

walking distance. Being both a restaurant and an event location we

is the ultimate place for your drinks, a delicious dinner or event.

have something to offer for both business and leisure guests from

Everyone is welcome here!

the surrounding area.

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member:

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member: To introduce

To connect with our neighbours and make

ourselves and connect with fellow members. Because we are

Strandzuid known in Zuidas.

located inside the Element by Westin Hotel Amsterdam, we were already associated to the Hello Zuidas community. Opening the

TRAINMORE PARNASSUSWEG

Sector: Fitness & Wellbeing

restaurant gives us even more chance to welcome and meet the other members, so we hope to see you soon!

FERILLI’S SPECIALITA UPTOWN

Sector: Restaurants Employees: 20 Link with Zuidas: Ferilli’s Specialità UpTown, located in the iconic “Valley” building, offers authentic Italian cuisine daily. They also offer a cool and energetic

Link with Zuidas: TrainMore is your

dining experience, complete with live DJ sets on

urban fitness playground that rewards

Friday and Saturday evenings and during a monthly

you with a €1 discount per workout, the

Sunday Brunch.

best equipment, and extended opening hours. Parnassusweg is our first TrainMore

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member:

location in Zuidas.

Ferilli’s Specialità UpTown is committed to fostering a sense of community and warmly welcomes

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas

guests from all walks of life, whether they’re visiting

member: TrainMore offers a unique

for business or leisure. As an integral part of the

contrast to the current fitness market

local area, this all-day Italian restaurant located

in Zuidas. It’s home to a modern, goal-

in the “Valley” building in Amsterdam’s dynamic

oriented community that we are looking to

Zuidas district is a hub for connecting with like-

expand to in Zuidas.

minded individuals over delicious food and drinks.

65

Klaar voor

een volgend huis?

Wil jij weten hoe het zit met je hypotheek als je verhuist?

Kijk op hypotheker.nl of loop binnen voor een afspraak

Your partner in Real Estate English Custom courses & professional translations www.taalcentrum-vu.nl/en/translations 020 - 244 3400 | info@taalcentrum-vu.nl

Amsterdam ZuidAs WTC Strawinskylaan 1427 / WTC (020) 662 14 11

Dit jaar vieren we dat Roberto’s 30 jaar bestaat. Sinds de oprichting in 1993 is Roberto’s doorgegaan met het verenigen van verschillende Italiaanse regio’s in unieke gerechten. Met seizoensgebonden menu’s geïnspireerd op de verschillende klimaten in Italië en de diverse ingrediënten die daaruit worden geproduceerd, is Roberto’s erin geslaagd de puurheid van de traditionele Italiaanse keuken te behouden.

Scan de QR-code om onze gloednieuwe website te bezoeken.

SCAN HIER

New Members

RENESSENCE

CORA DELICATESSEN URBAN GYM GROUP

Sector: Well-being & Wellness

Sector: Restaurants

Sector: Fitness & Well-being

Employees: 20+

Employees: 350+ Link with Zuidas: Our first store has

Link with Zuidas: Renessence offers

been located in the canal district in the

Link with Zuidas: Urban Gym Group is

innovative tech treatments and classes

Amsterdam city center for over a decade,

a world-leading fitness group with over

to take care of your mental and physical

and last year we opened a shop in Valley.

21 locations in Amsterdam, and four in

well-being. Our state-of-the-arc location in

We offer delicious sandwiches, fresh juices

Zuidas. Our newest TrainMore location in

Zuidas invites you to recharge, rebalance

and coffee. Everything is available to go as

Tower Ten will open this summer.

and revive.

well as to order and enjoy at our spot on Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas

the first floor.

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas

member: The Urban Gym Group is aiming

member: Renessence is about creating

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas

to expand the variety of fitness solutions

serenity in the midst of the storm. After

member: It’s time to meet our neighbors,

in Zuidas by offering unique concepts to fit

a busy workday, walk around the block

not only in Valley, but also around at the

individual needs.

and refocus on your mental and physical

Zuidas!

well-being.

FRITS FRIDAY Branche: Events Employees: 2 Link with Zuidas: Frits has been your go to for drinks at unique locations for eight years now. In Zuidas, Strandzuid is one of the locations where Frits likes to bring people together and he is ready to expand his location portfolio.

Reason for becoming a Hello Zuidas member: Frits would like to contribute to making Zuidas even more fun than it already is and hopes to be able to do that by organizing events and bringing likeminded people together at his drinks. By becoming a Hello Zuidas member, he hopes to be of service to other members.

67

Memo Board

MEMO BOARD

WILD AND THE MOON NOW ALSO AT CLUBSPORTIVE Sometimes, all you crave after a good workout is a crisp salad or fresh smoothie. So how great is it that, with one location in Zuidas already, Wild and the Moon have opened a second premises at Clubsportive? Drop by for a delicious snack, juice or shake made from locally sourced, seasonal and responsible ingredients.

Nominate yourself or someone else for the 2023 Zuidas Sustainability Award!

The Zuidas Sustainability Award is returning for a second edition in 2023. Presented to sustainable initiatives at the end of the year, in Zuidas, it recognizes efforts in five categories. The first edition of the new annual competition was held last year, taking over from the Zuidas Sustainability Report that was published during the previous eight years. The award offers a platform to showcase sustainable initiatives and inspire further sustainable developments in Zuidas, while shining a spotlight on all the enterprises and individuals working to green Zuidas. From small-scale efforts to large projects, last year’s winners demonstrated just how broad the spectrum of green initiatives in Zuidas is. And this year is even better, because now you can nominate someone else, too!

Circular Expo in CIRCL

In early February it was Circular Economy Week. Naturally, it was an occasion marked by many Zuidas organizations. Including CIRCL, which put together a variety of activities and workshops. Visitors could also see a fascinating presentation by the Club of Circular Entrepreneurs. This group of 22 forward-thinking enterprises and pioneering companies, including Swapfiets, Fairphone and Reflower, hosted a free pop-up expo spotlighting circular products, services and innovations. As well as showcasing good initiatives, the presentation was also a call to action for other companies and organisations to double down on sustainability.

68

Memo Board

A YEAR OF EVENTS! Social Club is a vibrant social community for all professionals based in the World Trade Center Amsterdam. To kick off a year packed with events, they hosted a fun gathering in early January with magicians, good food, great music and above all, ample opportunity to connect with other tenants. It was a fabulous start to the new year!

FEAT OF LOGISTICS AT ZUID STATION It was a monumental job: in late January, a three million kilogram colossus of steel and concrete was manoeuvred into place next to the A10 motorway, to make room for construction of the fifth section of the roof over the Brittenpassage – the new passageway being built west of the station’s existing pedestrian tunnel. The fourth roof section, a giant concrete slab measuring 70 by 14.5 metres, had been sitting on its construction platform next to the A10 for some time. During this massive operation, the slab was pushed 21.5 metres in the direction of the roadway at an average

Photography: Marcel Steinbach

speed of around seven metres per hour.

Text: Tessa Burger

The public were welcome to come watch the spectacle. Dozens of people took advantage of this unique opportunity and meanwhile got to hear about all the ins and outs of the ‘big push’. With this roof section in place, construction can progress to the next phase.

69

Meet The...

Zuidas is best known as Amsterdam’s business district, chock-a-block with skyscrapers and scores of offices. More recently, however, the district has grown into a veritable urban neighbourhood and a great place to live and hang out. Many businesses have also discovered Zuidas, and with their arrival, the district has added a wide range of services and amenities, including shops, schools, fitness centres and places to drink and dine.

Powering each of these establishments are entrepreneurs and employees with their own special, personal stories that we’re eager to share with you.

MEET THE...

TECHNICAL WORK PLANNER

Rene Tettero

Take a stroll around the World Trade Center Amsterdam and you’ll see any number of

I’m pleased. Of course, it’s important to

projects delivered by EQUANS. From lighting installations to full-scale renovations and

stress that I’m not working alone, but with

from climate and sprinkler systems to computer networks. With one of its locations in

our whole team. A team consists of a project

the heart of Zuidas, EQUANS is a global market leader in the technical services sector.

leader, work planner, operative crew and

Rene Tettero has been working in technical building services for 42 years, including 13

some ace technicians. When a team operates

at EQUANS in the WTC Amsterdam. As a work planner, he’s currently in charge of staff assignments and the preparation of a number of projects, and also liaises with customers.

like clockwork, I’m happy.”

So, how do you keep

What kinds of services

climate system technology and electrotech,

teams working smoothly?

does EQUANS offer?

which lets allows us offer custom sustainable

“In the WTC we work with two teams, for

“We focus on sustainable solutions

solutions to optimize buildings, processes,

modification and maintenance. That makes

tailored to our customers. We design,

systems and installations. My own area of

about twenty people altogether. From day

install, maintain and advise on technical

expertise is electrotechnology. We have a

to day there are also scores of other people

systems. So, we’re responsible for systems

range of different specialists on our team,

working for the WTC, both visibly and

maintenance and management and we help

including one for climate and sustainability.

behind the scenes. People like drafters,

with the creation of new buildings, but we

That makes EQUANS a terrific company to

engineers and designers. To keep these

also make existing buildings smarter.”

work for, because we can serve everyone.”

teams running smoothly, communication is key. I think it’s important to keep

Is the company involved in

What part of your job

communicating with each other about

the energy transition as well?

energizes you the most?

both work and private issues, through

“Climate change is a major concern for us

“I’m proud whenever we’ve deliverd a project

good times and bad. And also to offer a

and we’re always in search of eco-friendly

from A to Z and the customer is satisfied. If

listening ear to my colleagues. Standing

materials and techniques. It’s good to see the

at the end of the day a customer says, ‘Hey,

side by side with colleagues, not in front of

rapid development of sustainable options in

Rene, you guys did a great job!’, obviously

or behind them, is important to me.”

70

Text: Brigitte Oosterhuis • Photography: Nestor Tsakirakis, Studio Klijn

MEMBERS 1. ABN AMRO 2. Accendium 3. Accenture 4. À Deauville 5. Acre 6. AFC 7. AkzoNobel 8. Albert Heijn 9. Alpha Security 10. AMAZE 11. amsterdam inbusiness 12. Amsterdam UMC 13. Amsterdamse Bos 14. Arcadis 15. Arnold & Siedsma 16. Art Zuid 17. Asito 18. Asunaro Holland Interplan 19. Avenue Services 20. Avis Budget Autoverhuur 21. Bagels & Beans 22. Baker McKenzie 23. Bar Boele 24. Bar Valdi 25. Being Development 26. Bolenius 27. Boontje Advocaten 28. Bouwens& 29. Boyden Global Executive Search 30. BPD 31. Breevast 32. BREIKERS 33. Broersma Nieuwbouw 34. Caffè Belmondo 35. Cboe Clear Europe N.V. 36. CBRE B.V. 37. Che Buono 38. Cielo 39. Circl 40. Clean Center 41. Clubsportive 42. CMS 43. CoffeeDC 44. Cognito 45. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (Europe) 46. Confius Executive Search 47. Cora Delicatessen 48. Corporate Housing Factory 49. Cosmo Hairstyling 50. Courtesie International Business Affairs 51. Crossover (AM) 52. Crowne Plaza A’dam South

MARCH 2023

53. Customized Media 106. Happyhappyjoyjoy Zuidas 54. Cyrille van Hoof 107. Heeneman & Partners 55. De Betaalvereniging 108. Heidrick & Struggles 56. D&B The Facility Group 109. Hestia Kinderopvang 57. De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek 110. Het Zwarte Fietsenplan 58. De Hypotheker 111. Hielkema & co 59. Deloitte 112. Hogan Lovells International LLP 60. De Kredieter 113. Hotel & Wellness Zuiver 61. De Nieuwe Poort 114. Houthoff 62. De Pizzabakkers | Zuidas 115. Hotel TWENTY EIGHT 63. De Uitsmijter 116. House of Sports 64. Dentons 117. Htel Serviced Apartments 65. Doctor Feelgood 118. IEF Real Estate 66. Donkey Republic 119. IMA 67. Eden McCallum 120. InAmsterdam 68. Edge Technologies 121. INK Interiors 69. Eefje Voogd Makelaardij 122. Innside by Melia 70. Element Amsterdam 123. ISX Beveiliging 71. Enterprise Netherlands 124. Karhoo 72. EQUANS 125. KNAP Makelaardij 73. EMA (European Medicines Agency) 126. König + Neurath (Nederland) A.G. 74. Expat Center 127. Kraft Heinz 75. EY 128. Lebkov & Sons 76. Fam. Advocaten 129. Lexence 77. Ferilli’s Specialità UpTown 130. Limon 78. Financial Offices 131. Loyens & Loeff 79. Five Clinics 132. Luke Recruitment 80. Flexform Amsterdam 133. Lunshof Makelaardij 81. FLOW Real Estate 134. Lyon Office Support 82. Food & i 135. Maarsen Groep Beheer B.V. 83. Fornet International B.V. 136. Macquarie Capital (Europe) 84. Frans Otten Stadion 137. Made in May 85. Freelancers United 138. Magazine-Masters.nl 86. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 139. MaMa Kelly 87. Fris Makelaars 140. Market 33 88. Frits Friday 141. Mastercard 89. FSB Beveiliging 142. MBO College Zuid 90. FYEO 143. Mech Make & Take 91. Gelderlandplein 144. Molteni&C|Dada 92. Gen25 Amsterdam Flagship Store 93. G&S Vastgoed 145. Multicopy Amsterdam Centrum 94. Gerrit Rietveld Academie 146. NACH 95. Goede Doelen Loterijen 147. NatWest Markets 96. Grand Café Mahler 148. NDI ICT Solutions 97. Grand Prix Copyrette 149. Nederlandse Ver. van Banken Printing & Design 150. Nedstede Real Estate 98. Greenberg Nielsen 151. NewGround Law 99. Greenberg Traurig 152. NH Amsterdam Zuid 100. Green Business Club Zuidas 153. nhow Amsterdam RAI 101. GreenMobility 154. Nicolaas Lyceum 102. Greenwheels 155. Norton Rose Fulbright 103. Gustavino 156. Novotel Amsterdam City 104. GVB 157. NS 105. HAB Int. Accountants & Consultants 158. Oliver’s

COLOPHON Foundation Hello Zuidas WTC Amsterdam Strawinskylaan 61 1077 XW - Amsterdam +31 (0)20 333 74 41 servicepoint@hellozuidas.com www.hellozuidas.com www.facebook.com/hellozuidas www.instagram.com/hellozuidas www.twitter.com/hellozuidas Our goal With an excellent business climate, worldrenowned educational institutions within reach, and leading companies in many sectors from many countries, the Zuidas has huge potential. The foundation Hello Zuidas contributes to the Zuidas by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to promote a district that has international appeal, and high quality working and living conditions.

159. Olympisch Stadion 160. ONE-Dyas B.V. 161. Onemeeting.com 162. Openbare Bibliotheek 163. ORAM 164. Oranje Energie 165. Ox & Bucks 166. Papa’s Loft House 167. PAN Amsterdam 168. Pancakes Amsterdam 169. Pathé 170. Personality 171. PizzaLab 172. Poké Perfect 173. Premier Suites Plus Amsterdam 174. Projectorganisatie Zuidasdok 175. Property NL B.V. 176. Protiviti 177. Provast 178. Q-Park Nederland 179. Rabobank A’dam Markt Zuid 180. RAI Amsterdam 181. Regus 182. Renessence 183. RGA International Reinsurance 184. Rialto 185. Rivers 186. Rob Peetoom 187. Robert Walters 188. Roland Berger 189. Ronald McDonaldhuis VUmc 190. Rosarium 191. Russell Reynolds Associates 192. Savills Amsterdam 193. Salsa Shop 194. Season-Flowers 195. Securitas 196. Shinyu Body & Mind 197. Simmons & Simmons LLP 198. Sixt 199. Smartphone Citywalk Zuidas 200. Specialists in Security 201. SThree 202. Stibbe 203. Stichting Open The Doors 204. Strand Zuid 205. Student Experience 206. Summertime 207. SV RAP 208. Symphony’s 209. Taalcentrum - VU 210. Tandartsenpraktijk Van de Veer 211. Taylor Wessing 212. Tax Consultants International

Hello Zuidas invests in trees! How we do that?

Through our sponsorship for Trees for All, we plant trees that restore existing forests.

Zuidas Publishers WTC Amsterdam Strawinskylaan 151 1077 XX Amsterdam +31 (0)20 362 09 93 info@zuidaspublishers.nl www.zuidaspublishers.nl Copyright © 2023 Zuidas Publishers All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.

Circulation Free for Zuidas and Amsterdam South. It is be distributed by promo teams, loose circulation, HRM departments of companies within Zuidas to guarantee reaching the (sub) target groups of Zuidas, Amsterdam and Schiphol.

Editor-in-chief Romy Lange Editor & Sales Céline Boute, Brigitte Oosterhuis & Tessa Burger Intern Sophia Etmans Art Director Emiel Brouwers • IMAGEAU Translation Taalcentrum-VU Final Editor Ellen Josée Westrik Printed by Magazine Masters Frequency Six times a year (bi-monthly) Editors Romy Lange, Céline Boute, Brigitte Oosterhuis, Ramon Holle, Tessa Burger, John Leerdam, Gordana Todorovic, Sophia Etmans & Cathelijne Cras Photography Caily Bobbie Jo, Roxanne Wilm, Davide Gallery, Nestor Tsakirakis (Studio Klijn) & Alizée Le Bouteiller

213. Taxicentrale Amsterdam (TCA) 214. The Bank of New York Mellon 215. The Basket 216. The Breakfast Club 217. The Office Operators 218. The Upside Down Amsterdam 219. Thomaskerk Amsterdam 220. Tierra 221. TPEX 222. Trainmore 223. TREC 224. Tribes 225. Urban Gym Group 226. Urban Salad 227. Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Zuidas 228. Van Dijk & Ten Cate 229. Van Gool Elburg 230. Van Lanschot Kempen 231. VanLoman 232. Vebego 233. Vermaat Groep 234. Vesteda 235. Vet Digital 236. Victory Real Estate 237. Von Poll Real Estate 238. VondelGym 239. VORM Ontwikkeling 240. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam 241. VU | Griffioen 242. Wagamama 243. Watersportvereniging De Koenen 244. Welcome Home 245. WeWork 246. Wild & The Moon 247. Wineboutique & Spirits 248. Wintertaling 249. WTC Amsterdam 250. WTC A’dam Business Club 251. WTCafé De Blauwe Engel 252. WuSH 253. X.Bike 254. XO Optics 255. X2X Worldwide Express 256. Your Assistant 257. Zone2Source 258. Zuidas Apotheek 259. Zuidas Bier 260. Zuidas gemeente Amsterdam 261. Zuidas Markt 262. Zuidas Publishers 263. Zuidas Today 264. ZuidasTravel.nl

Magazine Hello Zuidas is issued by Editorial advisory board Olivier Otten, Angela Ham, Elisa Schouten, Gordana Todorovic & Jos Moerkamp Thanks to Suzanne Kwakkernaat (De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek), Eefje Voogd, Savills, Kroonenberg Groep, Zuidas (Gemeente Amsterdam), Hyde Park, Gelderlandplein, Q Residences, Taalcentrum-VU, De Hypotheker, Nederlandse Vereniging van Banken, Van Poelgeest, Enterprise Netherlands, John Leerdam, Van Lanschot Kempen, Tony Wijntuin, Nynke Popma, Yvette Watson, AM, Ronald Huikeshoven, Corporate Housing Factory, Wonderwoods, G&S&, aarts & co, Roberto’s, Sense Vastgoed, N/XT, Taylor Wessing, Hendrik Jan Schimmel, Adam Helpt, 1nergiek, Martijn Kock, CBRE Investment Management, Green Business Club Zuidas, SiS, D&B The Facility Group, Franc van Nunen & Rene Tettero

WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLACE AN AD IN HELLO ZUIDAS MAGAZINE? PLEASE SEND AN E-MAIL TO INFO@ZUIDASPUBLISHERS.NL

A NEW ICON IN TOWN

Luxury living in Amsterdam’s greenest district, its beauty drawn inside through floor-height windows.

That’s life in Q Residences. The warm lobby and high-end rental apartments with quality finishing will make you feel right at home.

Q-RESIDENCES.NL