“Oceaanstomer” they called it. A fitting name for this majestic building. Apollo House stands before you a testament to Amsterdam’s architectural prowess.
Built between 1937 and 1939 Apollo House was initially the headquarters of the Rijksverzekeringsbank the national insurance bank. Architect Dirk Roosenburg designed this functionalist masterpiece. Its steel skeleton supports a striking ring structure. This ring is topped by a taller central building.
Initially clad in glazed ceramic tiles the facade was later transformed in 1968. White travertine panels now adorn the building’s exterior.
Note the impressive entrance. It’s sheltered by a monumental canopy. Two bronze statues stand guard. Hildo Krop’s “The protector and enforcer of social legislation” stands on one side. Han Wezelaar’s “The protectress of social care and justice” stands on the other. They were added later in 1941 and 1954 respectively. They’re powerful symbols representing the building’s original purpose.
The building’s strategic location is remarkable. It sits at the intersection of the Apollolaan and the Stadionweg. These are the main thoroughfares of Amsterdam-Zuid. The Gerrit van der Veenstraat extends the building’s central axis to the rear.
On November 20 1939 the building officially opened. Jan van den Tempel the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs performed the opening ceremony. He also bestowed upon the architect the honour of Officier in the Order of Oranje-Nassau.
Today Apollo House is a Rijksmonument a national monument. It continues to serve a vital purpose. International law firm Allen & Overy and IT staffing company Elevation Group are among its current occupants.
The Apollo House is more than just an office building. It’s a piece of Amsterdam’s history. It stands as a symbol of progress social welfare and architectural innovation. It’s a beautiful reminder of the past. Its story continues to unfold within its walls.