The construction of the new Cruquius Pavilion: A look behind the scenes
Source: visithaarlemmermeer.nlA lot has happened since the official signing of the contract between the Haarlemmermeer Museum De Cruquius Foundation and contractor KernBouw on October 16, 2023. In November 2023, a historic moment took place. Councilor Marja Ruigrok, the historical figure Nicolaus Cruquius and director Elise van Melis were the first witnesses to sign the so-called 'testimonial'. A celebration of the future, but also a tribute to the past that forms the basis for this new chapter.
In December 2023, the stone house, which was added to the Cruquius Tea House in 1970, was demolished during the demolition phase. During the time of the reclamation, the Cruquius Tea House served as a residence for the supervisor of the pumping station. The supervisor's wife started a tea house to provide tea and cake to the people who came to watch the reclamation. The original wooden Cruquius Tea House from 1849 will be renovated and preserved during the construction period and will become an integral part of the new museum.
In January 2024, the first pile of the pavilion was driven into the ground, followed by another 71 piles in two days. Although this may seem like a lot, it is nothing compared to the pumping station, which is built on no fewer than 400 oak poles and 1.200 pine poles, each 12 meters long. A month later, an oil barrel was found while excavating the ground between the piles. Fortunately, the barrel had been remediated, allowing construction to continue without delay. The foundation has now been poured, a floor is in place and the concrete walls are being placed. The new Cruquius Pavilion is slowly but surely starting to take shape. With the realization of these plans, the museum foundation hopes to welcome more visitors, expand educational activities and strengthen cultural entrepreneurship.
The demolition and construction work is expected to be completed at the end of 2024, but the Cruquius Museum and Historical Museum will remain open, so come and visit! Visit the museum for opening hours and activities the website of the Haarlemmermeer Museum. Construction progress is here to follow live.
