Gortemaker Algra Feenstra has designed and realized the new accommodation for the police, the joint emergency control room of Central Netherlands, and the Interregional Coordination Centre (IRCC) in the heart of Hilversum. Transparency, connection, and a human scale were key principles in the design.

A New Police Building in the Heart of Hilversum
The location, framed by the surrounding streets Groest, Spuisteeg, and Kampstraat, is surrounded by mixed-use buildings and shops. To make optimal use of the available space, an underground parking garage was constructed beneath the building and the inner courtyard. The compact and efficient layout of the building contributes to a functional and safe working environment for the police and their partners. The entrance on Groest features chamfered facades, creating a welcoming entryway.

Architectural Structure and Facade
The layered structure of the facade ensures that, despite its four stories, the building fits well within the varied heights of the surrounding buildings. The combination of brickwork and floor-to-ceiling window frames creates a dynamic facade, subtly reflecting the variations in the floor plans. Vertical slats on the glass surfaces are not only an aesthetic addition but also provide sun shading and privacy, tailored to the building’s orientation.

Interior: Color, Materials, and Experience
The interior design aligns with the vision of sustainability and well-being. The use of color supports wayfinding and contributes to a pleasant working atmosphere. Recognizable blue and green tones provide a dynamic and structured appearance. The tactile experience of materials plays an important role: soft materials such as carpet tiles and acoustic wall coverings offer comfort in workspaces, while robust materials like concrete and wood give a bold and pure feel to high-traffic areas.

A Healthy and Flexible Work Environment
It is important for users and visitors that the building offers a healthy working environment. The design includes a large atrium that allows for efficient and informal collaboration. Passing each other at the coffee machine leads to spontaneous interactions between different disciplines. Large glass surfaces provide daylight and visual connections between various zones. Plants and natural materials contribute to the well-being of users. The restaurant serves as a central meeting point and is designed with warm colors, wooden accents, and flexible furnishings, making it easy to adapt the space to future needs.

Identity and Collaboration
To strengthen the identity of the police and the region, space has been created for graphic elements and artworks. The theme ‘…from the air’ has been translated into wall graphics that highlight the connection between the police and their work area. This contributes to a sense of pride and recognition within the building.
Through this redevelopment, Hilversum has gained a modern, functional, and sustainable police station that not only offers a safe and efficient workplace for the police but also creates a welcoming and accessible environment for visitors.