A long-awaited tunnel that directs "slow-moving traffic" has recently been completed at the Amsterdam Central Station. Meant to provide an efficient pathway for pedestrians and cyclists, the Cuyperspassage guides commuters from the old historic section of the city to "New Amsterdam". Benthem Crouwel Architects have collaborated with Irma Boom Office and ceramic company Royal Tichelaar Makkum to create a unique passageway that reflects what the architecture firm calls “a true Dutch spectacle.”
Since its completion before the New Year, the Cuyperspassage has enabled approximately 15,000 cyclists a day and countless pedestrians to cross its path. Measuring 100 meters in length, 10 meters in width and 3 meters in height, the tunnel provides a clear division between the two modes of travel.
Pedestrians can feel at ease while walking on one side that’s noticeably higher than the cycle-way, while those on bikes are guided by a run of LED lamps that line the edge of the footpath. Cyclists travel on a “rougher, open finish of black sound-absorbing asphalt and steel gratings…[meant to] enhance user comfort, given the tunnel’s concrete structure and great length”, noted a representative of Benthem Crouwel.
Since its completion before the New Year, the Cuyperspassage has enabled approximately 15,000 cyclists a day and countless pedestrians to cross its path.
The recent installment at the Amsterdam Central Station is as visually appealing as it is useful. Royal Tichelaar Makkum dedicated five years to producing the 46,000 wall tiles for a featured tableau, as well as 33,000 traditional Dutch floor tiles.
Royal Tichelaar Makkum dedicated five years to producing the 46,000 wall tiles for a featured tableau, as well as 33,000 traditional Dutch floor tiles.
Decorating the wall along the walkway is a striking tiled-composition, taking inspiration from a restored work by the Rotterdam tile painter Cornelis Boumeester (1652-1733).
Boumeester’s tile panel illustrating the Warship Rotterdam and the Herring Fleet has been adapted through the vision of Irma Boom. “The tableau fades away towards the IJ-river, the lines of the original work gradually dissolving. Then it builds up again in an abstract form from light to dark blue, as if encouraging cyclists to slow down as the ferry comes into view”, said a representative of Benthem Crouwel Architects.
Anything but ordinary, the Cuyperspassage provides a thoughtfully designed pathway for Amsterdam’s pedestrians and cyclists. The tiled tableau offers a pleasant visual experience for those travelling the tunnel’s path – a unique composition that brings the walls to life.
The Cuyperspassage is part of the overall master plan for Amsterdam Central Station - a project by Benthem Crouwel Architects, commissioned by the Municipality of Amsterdam, ProRail and Nederlandse Spoorwegen.
Alexis is a writer and curator based in Victoria B.C. She has a passion for material culture studies, auction hunting, art, travel, and museums. Alexis received a B.A. Honours degree (majoring in Art History) from the University of Victoria, and is currently flying by the seat of her pants.
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