StadsHeer

Standing tall and proud in the Haestrechtkwartier of Tilburg, Netherlands, the StadsHeer is a beacon of modern architecture and urban living. This 101-meter high building, with its 31 floors, offers a striking contrast to the more traditional skyline of Tilburg, making it a must-see for visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike.

The Genesis of StadsHeer

Before the StadsHeer graced the skyline, its location was part of the old railway facilities that once crisscrossed through Tilburg. As the city evolved, so did its landscape, and the former railway area was transformed into the residential neighborhood known as Haestrechtkwartier. The development of the StadsHeer was spearheaded by BAM Vastgoed, which later sold the project to Amvest in 2004. Initially, Amvest intended to sell a portion of the apartments, but eventually, all 85 apartments were put up for rent.

The design and construction of the StadsHeer were a collaborative effort involving several key players. EGM Architects took on the challenge of designing the building, while BAM Woningbouw was responsible for its construction. Hurks, a structural engineering firm, provided the construction design, marking their involvement in the project since 2002. Originally, the building was planned to be 89 meters tall and constructed using traditional pouring methods. However, the decision to use prefabricated components led to a final height of 101 meters.

Constructing an Icon

Construction of the StadsHeer began in March 2005, and by December of that year, the project was well underway. The addition of each office floor took approximately two weeks, while each residential floor took about one week to complete. Prospective tenants could start signing up in June 2006, following a residential exhibition held in March of that year. By September 12, 2006, the building had reached its highest point, celebrated with an event attended by local dignitaries and future tenants who even abseiled from the top of the building.

During its construction, the StadsHeer hosted a unique dining experience. From January 8 to March 5, 2007, a penthouse was transformed into the Skylinerestaurant De StadsHeer, a pop-up restaurant designed to attract potential tenants. This collaboration between Amvest and the Bonheur Horeca Groep added a touch of flair to the building's early days. The construction was completed on March 26, 2007, with half of the apartments already rented out. By May, this number had increased to 70%, although the building did face some challenges with vacancies in the following years.

Architectural Marvel

The StadsHeer is a testament to modern engineering and design. Built using prefabricated concrete components, the building's construction was both time-efficient and cost-effective. These prefabricated elements were pre-fitted with necessary utilities, streamlining the building process. The foundation consists of vibro-piles topped with a footing plate, ensuring stability for this towering structure.

One of the most distinctive features of the StadsHeer is its façade. The building boasts a white exterior with a unique arrangement of cantilevered balconies, colloquially known as bird cages. These balconies, attached using a quick-click system, give the building its signature look. Each apartment, except for the penthouses, includes one of these balconies, offering residents a private outdoor space with panoramic views of the city.

Inside the StadsHeer

The lower six floors of the StadsHeer are dedicated to office space, providing approximately 2,500 square meters of commercial real estate. This space is currently leased by VGZ, a health insurance company. Above the office levels are 25 floors of residential apartments, managed by Amvest. The building offers a variety of apartment types, including four types of three-room apartments (ranging from 75.5 to 96 square meters), two types of four-room apartments (124.5 to 144 square meters), and three penthouses (approximately 200 square meters each). Each of the top three floors houses one penthouse, offering the ultimate in luxury living.

In addition to the above-ground floors, the StadsHeer also includes a basement level, which houses essential installations and storage spaces. This thoughtful design ensures that residents have access to all the amenities they need while maintaining the building's sleek and modern aesthetic.

In conclusion, the StadsHeer is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Tilburg's growth and modernization. Its innovative design, efficient construction, and striking appearance make it a landmark in the city. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a prospective tenant, or simply a visitor to Tilburg, the StadsHeer is a sight to behold and a testament to the city's forward-thinking spirit.