Huis van de Stad, Municipal building in Gouda, Netherlands
The Huis van de Stad is a municipal building in Gouda featuring ten floors and a striking facade of diagonal brown brick bands. The pattern resembles the design of stroopwafels, the local pastry that made the city known.
The building was completed in 2012, bringing together government offices that were previously spread across five separate locations in the city. This consolidation made administrative services more accessible and efficient for residents.
The council chamber features an amphitheater-style gallery where residents gather for civic events and discussions. The wall displays stylized G letters that represent Gouda's identity throughout the interior spaces.
The building sits near Gouda's train station, making it easy to reach by public transport. Inside, visitors can find modern service centers and public meeting spaces that are often open for events and tours.
Shortly after opening, the building hosted a world record event where a chess master played multiple simultaneous games blindfolded. This early event established the space as a venue for memorable cultural moments.
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