Recap: Architecture in the Netherlands excursion #3 – Kantongerecht & Stadsforum

On Wednesday, October 8, nai010 visited Tilburg. During the Architecture in the Netherlands excursion, we explored the District Court and the StadsForum—remarkable examples of reuse in architecture. Under the theme “building upon the existing city,” we examined together with the architects involved how renovation and transformation in architecture can provide answers to contemporary challenges.

Joyce Verstijnen of Bedaux de Brouwer Architecten spoke about the origins of the distinguished firm and how, now based in Tilburg’s former courthouse, they continue the architectural legacy of Jos Bedaux by transforming the building with care and thoughtfulness. The District Court is a municipal monument, recognized by former Chief Government Architects Jo Coenen and Floris Alkemade as an inspiring example of postwar architecture in the Netherlands. It played a key role in Tilburg’s urban renewal during the 1960s. Since 2024, Bedaux de Brouwer Architecten has been based in the building, treating the original design as a foundation from which all transformations begin. In this way, the new generation of architects at Bedaux de Brouwer continues to build upon the foundations where Jos Bedaux once left off.

From the District Court, you overlook the StadsForum—once an asphalt expanse where cars sped by, now transformed by ZUS into a lively, greener city square. Urban designer Bas van der Vinne explained how the square was redesigned with respect for its history and social function as a forum and gave us a glimpse into future developments at Koningsplein. This paved part of the city will, in the coming years, be transformed into the Koningswei: a green connection between the city center, the new StadsForum, the Piushaven, and the Moerenburg nature area.