In Amsterdam, a historic church has been transformed into a vibrant meeting point for music enthusiasts. Designed by Powerhouse Company, this project preserves the historic structure while creating a modern performance venue for young musicians.
Known as Muziekwerf, this 930-square-meter space, supported by the Droom en Daad Foundation, revitalizes a 1951-built church. Located behind Hofplein’s bustling atmosphere, this venue is the first permanent rehearsal and performance space in the Netherlands designed specifically for young orchestras, pop choirs, and various musical talents. Powerhouse Company merged the original architecture of the church with modern functionality, creating an acoustically and aesthetically impressive cultural center.
The new main entrance welcomes visitors with an undulating ceiling inspired by water reflections, serving as the only new structural addition to the building. This foyer, seamlessly connecting with surrounding buildings, leads to offices and music studios. With light oak flooring and sound-diffusing panels, the space provides a warm and inviting environment; the wooden details subtly pay homage to the old church benches that once framed the music hall. Natural light streaming through restored stained-glass windows adds a graceful touch to the atmosphere.
This transformation exemplifies how a historic site can be preserved while serving a modern purpose, offering a new cultural space for the community. Muziekwerf enriches Amsterdam’s cultural life by blending architectural heritage with contemporary design, providing the city with an iconic venue where history and modernity intertwine.
