Renovation of De Beurs building for UG/Campus Fryslân almost complete

The renovation work on the classical Beurs building in Leeuwarden to prepare it for its new role as the new, modern residence of the UG/Campus Fryslân is going according to plan. On 5 April 2019, the building was completed by the contractor. 'We are incredibly proud of this wonderful building,' says Piet Bouma, Director of Business Operations at Campus Fryslân. The finishing touches and relocation of the faculty will take place in the next few months. 'We can’t wait until after the summer, when staff, students and PhD students will be together again in one building - De Beurs.'

Sneak preview on 7 June

This monumental building has undergone a true metamorphosis. The building is now full of surprising combinations of old and new elements, unexpected vistas and wonderful views. 'We understand that everyone is keen to come and take a look inside,' says Bouma. 'The first time that this will be possible is on Friday 7 June 2019, during a sneak preview at the end of the afternoon.' The Beurs building will be opened just once for the preview, so that all interested parties can take a look at the result of the renovation. 'So, put Friday 7 June in your diary now!'

Monument intact

The façade of the property, a national monument dating from 1880, will remain 100% classical in style – but the interior is 100% modern. 'Those who knew the building as a library will be amazed at the wonders J.O.N.G. Architects and Bouwgroup Dijkstra Draisma have worked,' says Bouma enthusiastically. 'The property has absolutely regained its grandeur. Even the colours and materials used exude warmth.' New ‘boxes’ (not attached to façades) have been placed and ‘stacked’ as teaching and workspaces so that both the monumental façade and the original floors can remain intact. In addition, low-energy and gas-free solutions such as solar panels (362 of them), LED lighting and window insulation prepare the building for the future.

Spacious entrance

Special features include the restoration of the original entrance of the building through the middle door and the reconstruction of the spacious entrance hall with its impressive staircase. With the help of old drawings of the building, a replica of the wrought iron stairgate has been made by a blacksmith and placed in the entrance hall.

A different view

The completely renovated Beurs building is a location where the faculty’s slogan, ‘a different view’, will be experienced to the full every day. 'It is now up to us, as the staff and students of the UG/Campus Fryslân and as the new residents of De Beurs, to deliver appropriate, sustainable content for the city and society in our work and study. A great privilege!' concludes Bouma.

More facts & figures

More information

• Further information and invitations to the sneak preview for the public and the press on 7 June 2019 will follow.