DIRECTIEKANTOOR
The management of Meelfabriek De Sleutels, together with its administrative offices and laboratory, was once housed here. Today, the building is home to seven inspiring businesses. It has been fully restored, with the exterior façade, window frames and interior spaces returned to their original condition wherever possible. The many authentic features reflect the atmosphere of its remarkable history.
The Directiekantoor was built in 1940 to a design by architect B. Buurman in the style of Functionalist Expressionism. Embedded in the façade is a historic millstone plaque from a windmill dating back to 1734, known as De Oranjeboom. In the laboratory on the second floor, the flour was chemically tested. Trial baking was used to determine whether it met the required quality standards: factory employees baked bread and cakes to assess whether the flour satisfied all specifications. Staff were allowed to take these test loaves and cakes home with them in the evening.
The authentic Leiden keys above the main entrance symbolise the company, which became known as Meelfabriek De Sleutels in the 1920s. Its previous name “Stoommeelfabriek De Koster & Co.” (literally “Steam Flour Mill De Koster & Co.”) became outdated with the introduction of electricity.
Year of construction: 1940 / Transformation: 2018
Architect: B. Buurman / Transformation architect: Studio Akkerhuis Architects
WHO’S WHO IN THE DIRECTIEKANTOOR
From solo entrepreneurs to teams, everyone enjoys working in one of the coveted offices within this listed monument complex. The occupants have a strong connection to the new purpose of the building. The reuse of De Meelfabriek instead of demolition, particularly for its sustainability, is something they appreciate deeply.
AS I -SEARCH – Anne Marieke Schwencke Anne Marieke Schwencke is an independent researcher in the local energy transition.
GDandP – Graphic Design & Photography, the name speaks for itself. Experience the enthusiasm of this great agency for yourself.
NPK Design is a team of designers, engineers, strategists and researchers with a passion for solving complex problems.
OWN Agency – This advertising agency helps brands grow by using creativity that motivates people.
EnergiekLeiden – Energiek Leiden is working on sustainable energy generation in the Leiden region. By doing so, they accelerate the transition to a sustainable, livable, and energy-neutral environment. They are a cooperative with members who contribute ideas, participate in discussions, and help shape the energy transition in our city.
VVKH architecten is a firm of architects who are enthusiastic, committed and knowledgeable partners in the residential and non-residential construction sectors.
Psychologiepraktijk Krediet – Marit Krediet is a healthcare psychologist (GZ-psycholoog) who treats people within general mental health care (GGZ) for issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD (trauma), Parkinson’s disease, and MS, using a holistic approach.
Rimadesio The exclusive Rimadesio Monobrand in the Netherlands in collaboration with Noort Interieur.
