Government, Education & Culture

VU Amsterdam ''Auditorium''

Renovated VU Auditorium ready for the future

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Project Information

Client

Heddes Construction & Development

Location

Amsterdam

Start - end date

- up to

April 2022

The Auditorium of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has been rarely used in the past two years. This period was used to carry out a major renovation. The completely new and modern look is now in line with the other spaces in the building and meets the needs of the users much better.

Commissioned by Heddes Construction and Development and designed by OTH Architects, Issos has realized various architectural and interior projects here. For example, we placed the structure in front of the balcony in the back of the room and provided it with the glass partition and upholstery. Wall coverings, paneling, rear walls and custom table tops were also produced and installed. The custom lectern is decorated with a two-component mortar shield with the “VU virgin” specially made by Issos. This shield is a gift from the contractor and Issos to the VU.

It is a copy of the wooden shield from the large VU Aula that still serves as a university seal.

Photography: Too van Velzen

Topics

Can you also work inside monumental or existing buildings?

Yes, we do that regularly, for example in museums! We have extensive experience with structural requirements, additional permitting processes, and respecting original features during renovations or transformations. The bigger the challenge, the more rewarding the work!

How do you take user experience into account in public or high-traffic spaces?

We consider routing, acoustics, sightlines, materials, and maintenance. Everything must not only look good but also be logical, safe, and durable in use – especially in sectors such as government, culture, and airports.

Are you accustomed to working in secure environments?

Yes. Our team is trained, vetted, and familiar with the procedures. We regularly work in areas with restricted access and strict logistics, such as airports or government facilities.

Can you serve multiple locations simultaneously?

Yes. We have the organization, network, and experience to operate simultaneously at multiple locations across the Netherlands – with centralized coordination and local execution.

FAQs

Can you also work with an external architect or main contractor?

Sure. We regularly work in construction teams with external architects, contractors and consultants. We coordinate our role flexibly: from interior construction alone to taking care of the entire process.

Do you only work on large projects?

No. We also take on smaller assignments and sub-projects with the same care and professionalism. Think of reception areas, pantries, meeting rooms or custom solutions where quality and detail are important.

What does turnkey project management mean?

Turnkey means that we take care of the entire process: from engineering to planning, execution and aftercare. One point of contact, one schedule, one result. No separate links, but one sleek whole.

Do you also deliver the custom furniture yourself?

Yes. We have our own production in-house and work with a permanent group of high-quality production partners. We engineer, plan and coordinate everything — including production, installation and delivery. This is how we guarantee quality, planning and a high level of finish.

Why include Issos in the project early on?

Because we contribute ideas from practice to the practical feasibility of a project. We often see where bottlenecks can arise and how to prevent them — technically, financially or architecturally. This way, you prevent delays and failure costs.

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