Hoofdgebouw II, 1895 Neo-Renaissance office building in Utrecht, Netherlands.
Hoofdgebouw II is a railway administration building constructed in 1895 from red brick with natural stone accents and decorative elements on its exterior. The structure connects to neighboring buildings via an elevated walkway and features a W-shaped floor plan designed for efficient office layout.
The Dutch state railway company commissioned this building in 1895 to house its growing administrative operations during a period of railway expansion. It became part of the larger railway complex that would develop further when a connected underground passage was added in 1921.
The facade displays sculptures and medallions honoring railway pioneers, reflecting the pride the company took in industrial progress. These decorative elements on the bridge and building surfaces show how the railway organization celebrated its own importance at the time.
The building sits between Moreelsepark and Utrecht Central Station, making it accessible on foot from either direction. Since it continues to serve as an administrative office, visitors can view the exterior and architectural details from the outside without needing interior access.
The building features an unusual W-shaped floor plan that was designed to optimize office space efficiency for administrative work. An underground passage connecting to the neighboring De Inktpot building from 1921 allowed staff to move between structures without going outside.
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