Adance of past and present
When we moved in, we wanted to learn more about the history of this beautiful building. It turns out that Kromme Waal 9 was designed by Jan Springer (1850 - 1915), a Dutch architect who played an important role in the professionalization of Dutch architectural practice and the creation of networks of architects and designers in the late 19th century. Springer understood the value of connections and transformed the Architectura et Amicitia (A et A) from a convivial social gathering of Amsterdam architects into a national organization with a noticeable influence worldwide. This fits beautifully with the community we want to build here today, The Collective. But, back to Springer. He was a well-known city architect and designed, among other things, the magnificent Stadsschouwburg in 1894. We find it quite extraordinary that he is also the creator of Kromme Waal 9....
Ships and voyages of discovery
KW9 was built in 1878. The first users of the building were the English with the company "Lloyd's Registry for Shipping. When we think of shipping and the late 18th century, we think of exploration. And that ties in with what we want to create here today. Journeys of growth and transformation. Which are also certainly journeys of discovery.
The joy of color...
Later, until 1892, a paint store settled in KW9. This also feels appropriate to the color we want to give to meeting space, workspace - and especially to the concept of community and supportive connections. And perhaps the connection to our past of paint aligns even more beautifully with our current collaboration with artists....
