The Kraanspoor project is an eye-catcher that can be seen from afar. This is a 270 meter long former crane runway, one designed by J.D. Reinforced concrete structure designed by Postma in 1952. There were 2 cranes on the production pier. Here the supertankers of the Nederlandse Dok en Scheepsbouw Maatschappij (NDSM) docked and were completed.
From the 1970s, shipbuilding shrank and numerous shipyards disappeared. In 1978 the NDSM also had to close its doors. Architect Trude Hooykaas saved it from demolition in 1997. Instead, she created a transparent three-storey building with more than 10,000 m² of unique work space and a breathtaking view over the IJ. The goal was a floating, transparent building above the existing structure, revealing the view of the former crane runway from the inside and maximizing views of the surrounding area. The architect placed panoramic elevators in the original stairwells and created archive areas in the concrete structures.
The Kraanspoor is not only a spectacular, but also a green building. For example, the water from the IJ is used for cooling in summer and heating in winter, ventilation is provided through openings in the floor and there are nesting sites for wild birds.
The building has received several awards.