Located 5 km south of Utrecht, the city of Nieuwegein was given a new city hall that will address the demands of the rapidly growing population. Along with administrative functions, the new building will also serve as a cultural center, acting as a catalyst for social affiliation with the city. It was designed by the Danish practice 3XN.

Description from the architects:

A Multi-functional House

The ‘Stadshuis’ – City Hall – of Nieuwegein mix traditional city hall features of offices and service with a library, a multi-cultural centre, and commercial facilities. In this way, the city hall becomes a part of the everyday life of the town. This creates life in the building all day and strengthens the connection to the commercial and residential area surrounding the building.

Ties the City Together

A modern participatory democracy requires transparency and communication at eye level in the encounter between citizen and authority. This has been a guideline for the design of a building which appears open towards the city. The city hall functions as an important part of the densification of the city centre and aims to tie the complex context together – but always with great respect of the neighbouring buildings

Democratic Institution with space for Interaction

The five floors spread out like a fan and open up towards the atrium, allowing the building’s visitors and employees to visually connect with what is happening on the other floors. The different levels are connected by an open winding staircase. Rotation of the floor plans allows the visitors a wide view from one floor to the next all the way up and down through the building.