Building

MIn the mid-eighties it was decided that the Rijksakademie should improve accommodation and the Dutch Ministry of Housing and Construction acquired the former Cavalry barracks at the Sarphatistraat in Amsterdam.

The renewal and renovation of the building was architect-designed by Koen van Velsen. The architecture and infrastructure of the building mirrors the structure of the Rijksakademie. The old, rectangular building shields a territory of quiet and concentration. The old stables of the building house the greater part of the technical workshops. Located on the upper floors and in the neighbouring manege are 60 individual studios. The inner court with two new buildings, houses the library, collections, artists' documentation and project rooms. Glass footbridges connect the different parts of the building. One bridge leads to a small restaurant overlooking the Singelgracht.