
The restoration of the Tramhuis (Tram house) has reached a significant milestone. The steel structure has been completely repaired, repainted, and has been replaced at Eendrachtsplein. This brings the return of the iconic building, which has been under restoration since June of last year, one step closer.
The work is progressing according to plan. Contractor Koninklijke Woudenberg has completed the construction of the basement, which forms the foundation for the rest of the building. This allows the replacement of the renovated facades to begin.
Restoration
Tramhuis was built in 1914 to a design by engineer N.D. Vredenk of the Bettenhausen firm, is a unique piece of Rotterdam heritage. The Art Nouveau influences, the slender steel structure, and the glass give the house its characteristic appearance.
The restoration, carried out by steel specialist Van der Vegt, aims to return the house to its original state. A color study was conducted during the restoration. Based on this, it will soon have a beautiful olive green color.
Rotterdam heritage
Over the years, Tramhuis stood in six different locations throughout the city, serving as a waiting room for tram passengers and RET staff. At Eendrachtsplein, it gained fame as a pub and later as a shawarma restaurant.
A walking route has been developed specifically for Open Monument Day that follows this exact path. City guide Anja Brand will take participants to the places where the Tramhuis once stood, sharing the history of the building and Rotterdam itself. This way, Rotterdammers and visitors can discover the rich history for themselves.
New destination
In early 2026, the Tramhuis will reopen its doors, serving as a kiosk for city walks. This will make it a vibrant hub where Rotterdammers and visitors can gather. The Tramhuis will not only return to its original state but also take on a new meaning within the city.
The first Tramhuis walk, an architectural route developed together with Winy Maas, is now available as a podwalk in the Tramhuis app and as a walking guide on the website or at Rotterdam bookstores.
The second walking tour, "World Cuisine in a World City," with Jonneke de Zeeuw (also known as Mooncake), will be released in October. You can pre-order the guide here .