Natural stone for new bicycle shed and bridges at Central Station
Natural stone has been placed at the new bicycle shed and bridges at Central Station. The natural stone can be seen at the stairwells, quay walls and sidewalks. Hassan Al Mandalaw is a finishing work planner and has been involved in the placement of natural stone for the De Entree project.
natural stone
In Amsterdam we design all streets, squares and public gardens according to the Puccini method. The method prescribes that we only use sustainable materials. Natural stone is sustainable. It has a long life. “In addition, it is extremely strong material”, Hassan. “It was already used at the pyramids in Egypt” Three types of natural stone were used at the Central Station. Basalt for the cladding of the quay walls and bridge piers, burnt granite for the walls and a light granite for the ground and stairs. The heaviest piece of natural stone is in the corner at the entrance of the bicycle shed and weighs 3,500 kilos.
Photo above: Hassan at Stationsplein bicycle shed. With left in the light and dark gray basalt stone, above it a rim of burnt granite. The gray curved plates in the middle are also burnt granite.
From purchase to result
With a smile on his face, Hassan walks 2 to 3 times a day across Stationsplein towards the new bicycle shed. In his role as work planner, Hassan is involved in the entire process. From purchasing material to the result. Hassan: “Actually, I’m in talks with the parties involved. Recently I meant, for example, test pieces of natural stone from the supplier. I looked into this with the architect and the client. After their approval, it was ordered.”
Photo: Hassan points to the other side. The emergency exits on the right and left of the Sint Nicolaasbrug are made of natural stone
Continue with dismantling
Now that the natural stone is in place, we make sure that all other parts fit in nicely. The next step for Hassan is to ensure that the railings and glass facades match the natural stone.