The Dutch Reformed Church in Onderdendam is a wonderful example of a regional Groningen interpretation of the Amsterdam School style. The design objective is to respect the character of the monument, to restore it to its original condition where possible, and to make minor interventions where necessary. The extension added in the 1980s is removed and the side facade restored. Removing this extension creates urban transparency towards the green site to the rear. This transparency is characteristic of the linear village along the Boterdiep Canal.
The front portion of the church nave houses a restaurant and foyer with an open mezzanine that preserves the spatial quality of the church. The inserted glass wall aligns with the roof truss above. The roof of the west wing above the preserved Amsterdam School museum is transformed into one large space topped by exposed trusses. The church pews in the Amsterdam School style are reused in the planned bed and breakfast facilities. A new volume positioned at the rear of the site overlooks a small waterway that is part of a secondary water network and forms a fine urban termination of the beautiful enclosed garden beside the church. The architecture of the new building blends with the sturdy brick architecture. The south-west and north-east corner of the site are kept open to retain views of the water. The play of symmetry and asymmetry enhances the urban composition and reflects the principles of the Amsterdam School. In this way the church acquires a new use while preserving and strengthening its qualities.
