The Scheepvaarthuis
The iconic building at the South end of the Oosterdok
The Scheepvaarthuis (shipping house) with the Kraansluis Bridge in the foreground - about 1920
The construction of the Scheepvaarthuis, at today's Prins Hendrikkade on the south side of the Oosterdok, was started in 1913 on behalf of 6 shipping companies. In order to make space for the huge building on an area of almost 1.5 acres, a total of 13 houses had to be demolished. The entire complex was built in the style of the Amsterdam School, an architectural movement of classical modernism. A large number of artists were involved in the execution of the numerous decorations, both outside and inside the building. The main entrance on the corner of Prins Hendrikkade and Binnenkant is crowned by a spire covered in shimmering bluish slate. The lead roof edge is shaped like ship ropes, waves and fish heads.
The actual Scheepvaarthuis on the Prins Hendrikkade, as seen from the Oosterdokseiland
After the shipping companies withdrew, the building went to the municipality, whereupon in 1983 it became the headquarters of the Municipal Transport Company (GVB). Finally, after another sale and subsequent extensive renovation, it was opened as the luxurious Grand Hotel Amrâth in 2007. In collaboration with experts and artists, as well as the Office for Monuments and Archeology, both the facade and the lavish interior were redesigned. It was inspired by the luxurious Art Nouveau style. The eye-catching building is understandably protected as a national cultural monument.
