Amsterdam, the Netherlands – The Diamond Exchange, Capital C Amsterdam in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, has been awarded with a prestigious International Architecture Award 2022. The historical building, designated as a national monument, has undergone a major renovation designed by the architectural studio ZJA in collaboration with Heyligers architects and has regained its original allure. The Dutch monument is crowned with a striking, dome of glass and steel; the ‘High Light’. The International Architecture Award is the oldest and most prestigious global building awards program. It is presented annually by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies and is regarded as a leading recognition in architecture.

Restored Monument

The Diamond Exchange in Amsterdam, built in1911, has been transformed into a center for the creative industry: Capital C Amsterdam. To fully restore the original qualities of the monument, the building underwent a major renovation to be largely returned to the original Gerrit van Arkel design. The renovation included restoration of monumental features and adaptation of the interior for use as a modern, flexible office environment, besides the addition of a glass and steel dome named the High Light. Art and design are a common thread that runs through the building.

Erik Smits, project-architect ZJA: “With the restoration of the Diamond Exchange and the new public space on the roof, an iconic building has been added back to the heart of Amsterdam and the national monument has once again become an important part of the city. The design for Capital C provides a contemporary revitalization of a special monumental building, so that history, public space and the dynamics of the international creative industry and art come together”.

Crowning on the roof

The construction of the High Light is based on the grid shell principle that allows for freedom in shapes and large spans without columns. The dome’s structure is transparent, light and open. It is layered with solar cells, generating energy and providing sun protection to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. The floor of the dome is equipped with an underfloor heating and cooling system. The green roof acts as a rainwater buffer and increases biodiversity, filters fine dust from the air and retains CO2.

Sparkling monument

As Capital C, the Diamond Exchange offers a contemporary office environment and art exhibitions for the local community amongst others, situated within a truly unique monument. On top of that it provides one of the most spectacular views over the city to be seen from the roof dominated by its stylish and iconic dome. The Diamond Exchange is once again a significant part of Amsterdam, a sparkling monument reflecting the past and present of Amsterdam.