“Initium” a name that speaks of beginnings. This impressive building stands before you. It’s the gateway to the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam campus. Initium itself means ‘start’ in Latin. It’s more than just an entrance though.
Initium houses the Faculty of Law. The Dutch Crime and Law Enforcement Study Center NSCR also resides here. The VU Language Centre Taalcentrum VU is located within its walls. This modern building is the work of the Op ten Noort Blijdenstein architectural office.
Think of Initium as a symbol of a new way of learning and working. Flexible workspaces are a key feature. The design integrates efficient space use and a sustainable work environment. The building boasts a large multi-functional space. It includes approximately 325 new workplaces. There is a huge lecture hall with 550 seats. Eight smaller rooms can be used for classes or exams. One hundred and sixty-five computer workstations are available for students.
It took only nine months to build Initium. This was a remarkable achievement especially considering its size 10000 square meters. It was completed on a relatively small site in Amsterdam. The project achieved a 20% cost saving. This was due to the integrated design and build approach. This included all the fixtures and fittings.
Initium is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents a vision. It’s a testament to innovation and sustainable design. It is the modern face of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. It’s a place where new ideas are born. It’s where the future is shaped. A place you should visit. A place where beginnings happen. This is Initium.