A site with history

The site where the Dudok gas station now stands has been in motion for centuries. In the 17th century, there was a small harbor here where peat, bricks, and other goods were transferred along the Diepenring. This harbor remained until shortly after World War II. In 1955, the site was given a new function: ESSO had a gas station built here, designed by architect Willem Marinus Dudok.
In total, Esso built 112 of these standardized Dudok pavilions. Today, only two remain. The station on the Turfsingel—built in 1954/55—is the only one still in its original location and, until just a few years ago, was still in use.

But this particular example is special for another reason: it deviates significantly from the standard. Because of the presence of an integrated transformer station, parts of the glass façades had to be replaced with solid steel panels—something that contradicted Dudok’s original vision of transparency. It is precisely this deviation from the system that makes the building unique—and perhaps that is exactly why it has survived.

Since 2010, the building has been a listed national monument. The quay wall has that status as well. In 2013, the people of Groningen voted it the most beautiful post-war building in the city. And in 2019, we—IRIS Architecten and Marseille Buiten—were commissioned to design the site and carry out the restoration, adaptive reuse, and sustainability upgrade of the building.

A New Meaning

When the City of Groningen invited three firms in 2019 to develop a vision for this site, we seized the opportunity with both hands. This was not just a task to preserve an iconic building, but above all to give the place new meaning in the city.
Our plan was based on the idea that the gas station should not be preserved as a museum piece, but should function as part of everyday life. Not a closed-off monument, but a lively public place—accessible, welcoming, and firmly rooted in its surroundings. An environment that should feel inviting, safe, and green.
The Dudok station has since been transformed into a green waterfront space on the Diepenring, where you can sit with your feet in the water. The site now forms an important new link between the Ebbingekwartier and the city center, and has quickly become a beloved spot in the city.

Design Strategy

The final design looks simple and self-evident—as if it had always been meant to be this way. But beneath that apparent simplicity lies a complex interplay:

-restoring, reusing, and upgrading the Dudok pavilion,

-accommodating traffic on the Turfsingel,

-adding spatial quality to the public realm,

-connecting the square to the water,

-and revealing the layered history of the place.

The large wooden deck along the water was developed as an enormous seating element, almost like a piece of furniture placed on the water. Together with our technical partners, we designed it as a light, seamless transition between the street level and the deep profile of the Diepenring.
For the site and deck, we chose artisanal detailing in fired brick pavers, natural stone, and real wood. The kiosk was restored while retaining as much original material as possible, leaving the traces of seventy years visible in the interior.

A Truly Public Place

What we especially did not want was a classic fenced-off hospitality terrace with rules and restrictions. The square surrounding the gas station was designed as a truly public space. You can have a drink at the kiosk, but you can also simply sit down, read a book, meet a friend, play, or eat your sandwich.
The deck brings you closer to the water than almost anywhere else in the city. What used to be a place to refuel with gasoline has now become a place to refuel in a completely different sense.

Climate and Technology

From the start, we looked for ways to connect the monument with the challenges of our time. Reusing the building is already a sustainable statement in itself, but climate adaptation was also an integral part of the design for the outdoor space.
The square has been greened and planted with species that stimulate biodiversity and require little maintenance. New trees provide shade and cooling. The wooden deck prevents heat stress and allows rainwater to filter through. The deck is completely detached from the monumental quay wall.
The building was made more sustainable while preserving its original appearance. The existing steel window frames were fitted with heritage glass, the roof and floor were insulated (with the roof recessed to maintain the characteristic roofline), and PV panels were applied as a thin-film layer. Around the transformer station, PV panels featuring photos of the original situation were installed. Heating and cooling are provided by a heat pump, invisibly placed behind reused grilles.

Open Process, Shared Place

What also made this project special was the process. The City of Groningen played an active and courageous role as client. While some parties argued for demolition, the city chose instead to use this building as a catalyst to add a meaningful place to the city. This choice required vision and perseverance—but the success of the site proves how right that decision was.
The design competition launched in 2019 was partly judged by the public. During the implementation phase, open selection procedures were also chosen. For example, the operator of the kiosk was selected through a public tender, with an emphasis on social engagement and sustainability.
This open attitude has had a real effect. The place is now truly used. The Dudok site has quickly become a beloved spot. Seventy years after its original completion, this place is ready for the next seventy years.

In Conclusion

For us as a project team—client, architects, builders, and consultants—“Dudok aan het Diep” has become a model project. It shows that post-war heritage offers tremendous opportunities: opportunities to connect, to slow down, and to add meaning to a place.
Writer Martin Bril put it beautifully back in 2007:

“A sleek, yet winged, soaring roof on a small rectangular building with lots of glass—a marvel of functionality and elegance. You don’t often hear someone say this about a gas station, but this one by Dudok has the power to move you.”

Team:

Architects: IRIS architecten

Photographer: Roelof Bos