History of Gooiland
Gooiland is a household name in Hilversum. In the 1930’s, the elite lacked an entertainment venue for city entertainment in the quiet, green Gooi. The Buurke family took a leap into the unknown and commissioned the young architect Jan Duiker to design a location with grandeur. A true hospitality machine. They deliberately opted for an ultra-modern building, in the style of ‘Het Nieuwe Bouwen’.
Steel frames and large windows
Before it can be built, Jan Duiker suddenly dies. His former partner Bernard Bijvoet takes over the building process. He continues the design and vision of Duiker and supervises the construction. In July 1936 Gooiland opens his doors: hotel, restaurant and café, all under one roof. The look? Sleek and businesslike. No unnecessary decorations. With many steel frames and large, very large windows. Sober, but with a luxurious feel. Disgusted by one, admired by the other. One thing is certain: from day one, it was the place to be.
National monument
After WW2, decades follow with different owners, changing visions and the absence of the original hotel. Various broadcasters use it as an office and Gooiland transforms into a diverse cultural center. Although the building is deteriorating, it is estimated to be of value. In 1987 the municipality of Hilversum even sells the famous painting ‘Composition with two lines’ by Piet Mondriaan, to be able to renovate the building. In 1989 it was given the status of national monument.
Gooiland Hotel
In 1994, the building came under one owner, who returned the hotel: Gooiland Hotel Hilversum Amrâth. In 2012 Philip Lamers, owner of the adjacent event location, embraces the hotel and continues it as Gooiland Hotel.
Given its rightful place
A drastic renovation follows. The building, both inside as outside, is being restored and it regains the grandeur of yesteryear. Monumental details, such as the original letters on the façade, the original Gispen theater chairs, and the natural stone floor in the lobby, are preserved. At the same time, the facilities are contemporary, and the appearance is warm and modern.
In 87 years, the building might have had an upgrade, but the ‘hospitality mentality’ has always remained the same. Then, now, and in the many years to come. We welcome you with open doors!