Servotel

Situated in the picturesque town of Drachten in the Netherlands, the Servotel stands as a testament to innovative residential design and community living. This 13-story building, which once revolutionized the concept of service flats in the country, has a rich history and a unique charm that continues to attract visitors and residents alike.

The History of Servotel

The Servotel, originally known as Servotel 'Talma', was inaugurated in May 1972 by KVP faction leader and housing spokesman Frans Andriessen. This groundbreaking project was designed to cater to a diverse group of residents, including retired couples, working couples without children, single professionals, and short-term hotel guests. The building's multifaceted approach, combining residential apartments with hotel services, was a pioneering concept in the Netherlands at the time.

At its inception, the Servotel boasted an impressive array of amenities, including a restaurant, eatcounter, bar, bowling alleys, billiard room, sauna, bank, and small office spaces. This comprehensive suite of facilities made it a prime destination for those seeking a comfortable and convenient living environment. The initial response was promising, with 5 to 6 families occupying the building and around 30 to 40 inquiries per day. Most of the interest came from the large cities in Western Netherlands, though the local community in Drachten was initially more reserved.

A Visionary Living Concept

The Servotel's 13 floors were meticulously planned to accommodate various types of residents. The top floor housed hotel rooms, while the 12th floor was dedicated to pension guests. The 2nd through 11th floors featured service apartments, providing a blend of privacy and community living. With 130 rooms for permanent residents and 20 rooms for short-term guests, the Servotel was a bustling hub of activity.

The building's construction cost over 10 million guilders, a significant investment that underscored the ambitious nature of the project. At the opening ceremony, the then-mayor of Smallingerland, Drs. Willem Ernest van Knobelsdorff, emphasized the importance of the Servotel in elevating the town's status. He believed that the project was a crucial step in transforming Smallingerland from a 'second-rate municipality' to a 'first-class municipality'.

Challenges and Changes

Over the years, the Servotel evolved to meet the changing needs of its residents. While it was initially designed for the elderly, by 2008, it also began to accommodate younger individuals with mild intellectual disabilities who required supervision. This shift was made possible through a contract between WoonFriesland (the successor to Talma) and Tjallinga Hiem from Leeuwarden. However, this change was not without controversy, as the original zoning plan only permitted elderly residents. After some pushback from the local community, the municipality granted an exemption, allowing the new residents to stay.

The Threat of Demolition

In early 2012, plans were announced to demolish the Servotel and replace it with new, modern apartments. The existing 158 apartments were to be replaced with 40 larger and more luxurious care apartments, scheduled for completion in 2016. At the time, ZuidOostZorg, a care provider, rented 35 apartments in the Servotel, while 57 of the 115 service apartments managed by WoonFriesland were vacant. The decision to demolish the Servotel was driven by its outdated facilities, such as the lack of individual cooking amenities and outdated bathrooms.

However, the demolition plans were delayed due to the financial constraints imposed by the credit crisis and government measures. As a result, WoonFriesland and ZuidOostZorg lacked the funds to proceed with the new construction. Despite the delay, the process of relocating tenants and clients continued, and by the end of 2013, the building was expected to be vacant.

A New Chapter

In 2015, the Servotel found a new lease on life. Zorggroep Aventura began renting several floors to provide supervised living for individuals with psychiatric needs. This new purpose breathed fresh life into the building, allowing it to continue serving the community in a different capacity.

Today, the Servotel remains a significant landmark in Drachten. Its towering presence is a reminder of the town's progressive past and its ability to adapt to changing times. Visitors to Drachten can appreciate the Servotel not only for its architectural significance but also for its role in the town's social and cultural evolution.

In conclusion, the Servotel in Drachten is more than just a building; it is a symbol of innovation, community, and resilience. Its history is a fascinating journey through the changing landscape of residential living in the Netherlands, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the unique stories that shape our world.