City Hall Arnhem

City Hall Arnhem is a relatively young municipal monument designed by architect Konijnenberg, associated with the Functionalist movement. 

The building was conceived as a total design, with the architect responsible for the exterior, interior and furniture. Over time, however, the existing décor no longer met contemporary requirements. Changes in governance structure demanded a different spatial organization for meetings, while the furniture and layouts had become impractical, non-ergonomic and worn. 

The complete design for the restoration, renovation and renewal of the building was entrusted to Ruud-Jan Kokke. The process was closely monitored by the monument committee and municipal officials. In addition to architectural interventions, both interior and exterior elements were reconsidered, and as many original components and furniture pieces as possible were redesigned. 

A key intervention was the transformation of the Council Chamber layout. The former configuration, with elevated governance positioned opposite the council members, was replaced by a piste-style arrangement. This new setup supports contemporary democratic debate and interaction. To achieve an optimal meeting configuration, Ruud-Jan Kokke worked closely with debate expert Maarten Bouwhuis, following a proposal by the Registrar. 

Throughout the project, original forms, materials and detailing were carefully studied and reintroduced into the new designs. This ensured continuity with Konijnenberg’s architectural language while allowing the spaces to function effectively in the present day. Art played a central role, in keeping with the original vision of the building. The original Council Chamber featured an artist-designed carpet. In response, Ruud-Jan Kokke invited an artist to create a new carpet design. All council members were asked to contribute two words, which were then given to artist Petra Hartman and woven into the carpet pattern. 

Following Konijnenberg’s example of integrating art into the architecture, twelve artists were involved in the City Hall project. Some were commissioned for specific works, including the carpet by Petra Hartman, the Council Chamber mural by Ad Gerritsen, the Bennisallee mural by Rosemin Hendriks, and a runner by Koos van Zomeren. Other artists contributed through acquisitions or donations, including works by Maria Roosen, Klaas Gubbels, Peter Otto, Marcel Joossen, Albert van der Weide, Gabriele Merrolli, Peter Bliek, and The People of the Labyrinths.