Zaandam has a new eyecatcher. The town, which lies in the heart of the Zaan region just northwest of Amsterdam, is known for its traditional green wooden houses and windmills.
The characteric Zaan style of building not only draws many tourists from all over the world, but it also inspired Dutch architect Wilfried van Winden to design a unique green hotel.
Wilfried van Winden looks at his creation from the roof of Inntel, the former Golden Tulip Hotel Amsterdam. His building consists of 70 houses. The different shades of green leave an imprint on one's retina.
Painting by Monet
The blue house on the side forms a sharp contrast with the remainder of the building. The architect wanted to give the building an artistic flair. The blue house refers to the canvas Blue House at Zaandam painted by Monet in the Zaan Region in 1871. At first the blue building was going to house the bridal suite, but the idea was later shelved. The blue house makes the building look more striking and unusual.
The architect has received both praise and criticism for the unusual design. Some people view the hotel as kitschy, while others find it to be cheerful and entertaining. The windmills and facades, as well as the typical Zaan-made cacao and biscuits are integrate in the decoration of the rooms and halls of the hotel. The 12-storey building is part of a larger architectural project.
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