Post-war gems along Wibautstraat

Abstract

Unfortunately a lot of post-war buildings are considered space makers for newly builds, due to current norms and regulations. This results in demolition, which is harmful with the ever changing taste in architecture. A lot of public buildings along the Wibautstraat originate from after the second world war. These Post-war buildings correspond to social and economic events throughout history and represent their architectural zeitgeist. This research will look at the correlation between the urban development of Wibautstraat and the public buildings along the street. Answering the question: How did architecture contribute to reshaping Wibautstraat over the years?
Several architectural movements were accruing in the street after the war. For example upcoming functional architecture which was contradicting to traditional architecture, popular in the 50’s, and later on modern architecture, which was popular in the 60’s. Municipal institutions were placed at the head of Wibautstraat, creating a grand allure within the street, creating a monumental gate into the city centre. This was then followed by a rising economical situation using space for more office buildings, creating the iconic newspaper district on the other side of the street in the 70’s. The office buildings contributed to the increase of traffic on the Wibautstraat, resulting in the first drastic urban changes. As a reaction to the unsatisfaction of inhabitants about the municipal shifted their focus on providing social housing. The introduction of the new underground metro line was connecting the city centre with surrounding neighbourhoods and help to regulate the upcoming traffic. But unfortunately it had negative effects on the street image in the 80’s and 90’s. Entering the 2000, a new, and bigger, plan was presented to transform Wibautstraat and replace that negative image. This was done by introducing new functions, like the HvA Campus and hotels, along the street and providing a cohesive look by adding greenery. The current municipal plans, in which Wibautstraat contributes, provide the opportunity to participate in experimental projects like Knowledge Mile, since 2021. This plan will introduce new methods and ideas for making the existing city green. With these educational projects the municipality wants to create Kenniskwartieren for advocating future developments in Amsterdam. Wibautstraat does not only provide for a direct road connection, but also introduces a pleasant neighbourhood with a green boulevard