In the heart of Leidschendam-Voorburg, Netherlands, stands a testament to mid-20th-century innovation and architectural prowess: the Dr. Neher Laboratorium, locally known as Neherlaboratorium. This iconic structure, named after Dr. Lambertus Neher, the Director-General of the PTT from 1949 to 1954, has a rich history that intertwines the evolution of telecommunications and cryptographic technology in the Netherlands.
The Dr. Neher Laboratorium was established in 1946, marking a significant milestone in the post-war reconstruction era. Its primary mission was to spearhead product development and integrate commercially available professional systems into the postal and telecommunications sectors, as well as the giro service. The laboratory became a beacon of innovation, especially in the realm of cryptographic equipment. Between 1947 and 1957, under the leadership of Professor Dr. Ir. R.M.M. Oberman, the first Dutch post-war crypto equipment for securing telex messages was developed here. The pioneering system, known as Colex – a portmanteau of Code and Telex – was deployed in several embassies. Its successor, Ecolex, found widespread use in many embassies and all ships of the Royal Navy.
The architectural design of the Dr. Neher Laboratorium is nothing short of remarkable. Designed by S.J. van Embden, the building was completed in 1955 and officially opened on May 17 of the same year by the then Minister of Transport and Water Management. The building's unique W-shaped layout is both functional and visually striking. The central wing is marked by a 52-meter-high tower, which serves as a focal point, while the main entrance is centrally located. The outer sections house the laboratory halls, making the building a perfect blend of form and function.
Within the walls of the Dr. Neher Laboratorium, some of the Netherlands' earliest computers were developed. The Mathematical Laboratory saw the creation of the ARCO (1950) and later the PTERA (1953), both designed by Professor W. van der Poel. These pioneering machines laid the groundwork for future advancements in computing and digital technology in the Netherlands.
As the years passed, the Dr. Neher Laboratorium's role in the operations of KPN (formerly PTT) became redundant. In September 2001, KPN Real Estate applied for a demolition permit, signaling the end of an era. However, fate had other plans. In 2007, the building was placed on the Top 100 Dutch monuments list for the period 1940-1958 and was subsequently recognized as a national monument. This recognition halted the demolition plans and preserved the building's historical significance.
With its status as a national monument, the Dr. Neher Laboratorium found a new purpose. KPN decided against redeveloping the building and instead sold it to the project developer Sequoia. The building underwent extensive renovations and was transformed into the Neherpark apartment complex. Today, it houses 87 apartments, primarily for senior citizens, and boasts modern amenities such as a swimming pool and fitness center.
In 2010, the NeherLab opened its doors to a new kind of innovation – culinary excellence. A restaurant named Brasserie NL was established within the complex, offering a delightful dining experience. In June 2018, the restaurant underwent a transformation and was rebranded as Proeflokaal Bregje, continuing the tradition of serving delicious meals in a historic setting.
Today, the Dr. Neher Laboratorium stands as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and transformation. Its journey from a cutting-edge research facility to a national monument and residential complex is a testament to the enduring legacy of Dutch ingenuity. Visitors to Leidschendam-Voorburg can marvel at its architectural beauty, delve into its rich history, and enjoy the modern amenities it now offers. The Dr. Neher Laboratorium is not just a building; it is a living monument to the spirit of progress and the power of preservation.
So, whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique place to visit, the Dr. Neher Laboratorium promises an experience that bridges the past and the present in the most fascinating way.
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