The Bakenessertoren has won the Lieven de Key Medal 2025. The Haarlem architecture prize this year focused on monument care, heritage, and reuse.
Architect Dennis van Veen received the award for the restoration of the Bakenessertoren. The work included repairs to the stone, wood, and lead elements. The lighting and clock were also renewed. The tower has regained its original appearance with historic colors: lead gray, sandstone-colored natural stone, and red brick. The restoration was carried out together with the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands and skilled craftsmen. The jury praised the craftsmanship and the choice to keep the lead visible.
Public Prize for Stedelijk Gymnasium
The public prize went to the Stedelijk Gymnasium. The design by BRIQUE architects received 798 of the 3,503 votes. Never before has there been so many votes for the public prize. The monumental school building received a wooden extension, an additional elevator, and new climate installations. The building has also been made more sustainable.
About the Lieven de Key Medal
The Lieven de Key Medal is an annual award from the ABC Architecture Center Haarlem, together with the Municipality of Haarlem and Atelier Stad. The prize is named after Lieven de Key, the most famous city architect of Haarlem.
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