The last Civil Servant

by Bert Hermans · Gouda, NL

This painting is an artist impression of the old post office in Rotterdam. This imposing old building stands next to the Stadhuis (Town Hall). It closed its doors as a post office many years ago and was then available to hire as an events venue. Built in the first quarter of the last century, it was given the status of rijksmonument (protected building) in 2000 and is one of the few buildings in Rotterdam to have escaped the bombardment in World War II. The plan is to develop it into a luxury residential complex, five-star hotel, retail outlets and fitness centre and will cost around €100 million. The building can be described as having an eclectic style of classical and art déco and covers an area of 25,000 square metres with an imposing entrance hall reaching a height of 22.5 metres. The original qualities of the building will be strengthened and will form the basis of a new style of living. After the renovation the former grandeur of the building will be restored so that the public can once again experience the elegance of this historic monument. The renovation will revitalize a central location in the city, with the design and characteristic elements of this beautiful historic building being enhanced in a respectful way.