Sunken gymnasium beneath the schoolyard at Children’s Centre De Vijverhof

The renovation of Children’s Centre De Vijverhof in Voorburg is in full progress. The listed building has now been stripped and is being transformed with three extensions and a new internal layout. The project also includes significant sustainability upgrades. The largest intervention is the sunken gymnasium. This new underground sports hall occupies the entire footprint of the rear schoolyard. This solution made it possible to retain the 1930s building and preserve much of its original façades.

The construction of the underground basement structure was a remarkable feat by contractor Cella Kelderbouw. The walls were cast in situ and initially extended 7.5 metres above ground level, at a distance of less than one metre from the surrounding buildings. Beneath the walls, a steel element allowed the structure to gradually sink into the ground under its own weight during excavation. Once the walls reached their final depth, the foundation piles and the gymnasium floor were constructed. Three skylights bring daylight into the space and create a visual connection with the schoolyard.

In the coming months, work will continue on the completion of the gymnasium and the renovation of the listed building. The children’s centre is scheduled to move into its new premises at the end of this year.

View the design here.