A concrete luifel stands before us. This is not just any overhang. It marks the entrance to De Hoeksteen. Today known as De Ontmoeting. De Hoeksteen has witnessed decades of community and change in Amsterdam’s Slotermeer.
De Hoeksteen’s story begins in 1962-1963. Architect Piet Zanstra designed this church complex. It became his most striking church design. Zanstra placed the church hall on the first floor due to limited space. The square hall was 18 meters. It accommodated up to 450 people. A small day chapel added to its spiritual ambiance.
Dick Elffers contributed significantly to De Hoeksteen’s visual appeal. He designed the concrete luifel’s decoration. Seraphs with six wings adorn it. These figures draw inspiration from Isaiah 6 verses 2 and 3. Elffers also created colored glass artworks for the side aisle’s end walls. He used an appliqué process with four glass layers. These windows symbolize the cornerstone. It represents the foundation of the Christian community.
Originally named De Hoeksteen, it became De Ontmoeting in 2006. The building has adapted over time. Interior modifications have occurred. However, the original character remains intact.
Inside De Hoeksteen, a large meeting space welcomes visitors. You’ll also find living rooms, club rooms and meeting rooms. Offices for the pastor and youth worker are there. The first floor houses a library, a course room and a social worker’s office.
Around 1980, the church faced a dilemma. The tower’s condition was deteriorating. The community had to demolish it. Despite this loss, De Hoeksteen continued to serve its purpose.
De Hoeksteen wasn’t just a religious center. It also housed a youth center. Teenagers enjoyed crafts and activities. Older youth found programs reflecting the spirit of 1968. These activities sometimes clashed with the church board’s views. Tensions escalated. In 1971, a “wild” occupation occurred on New Year’s Eve. Police intervened. The youth sought refuge with a sympathetic family. This event highlighted the social currents within De Hoeksteen.
In 2017, Heemschut Amsterdam and the Cuypersgenootschap took action. They requested that the city protect De Ontmoeting. Formerly De Hoeksteen, as a municipal monument. This request was granted. The most striking church of Piet Zanstra, became a protected landmark.
De Hoeksteen stands as a testament. It reflects architectural vision and artistic contributions. It also embodies community engagement. Its walls hold stories of faith. They also hold stories of social change and artistic expression. As we stand here, we recognize De Hoeksteen. It’s a place of worship, a community hub and a monument. It represents the ongoing story of Amsterdam’s Slotermeer.