After a major restoration from 2011-2019, the monumental 50-meter-high crane started its second life as a brand-new luxury hot spot in Amsterdam with just 3 suites and a TV Broadcasting studio. Curious? Watch the start of the 9-year project at: Restoration Faralda Crane.
The old crane was in a profound state of disrepair. The redevelopment has been a major tour de force because of the unprecedented structural challenges. Architectural vision: The crane has been restored and brought back to its original colors (blue-grey and yellow). According to the vision of the famous architect Bernard Tschumi, new additions are in red. (I.e., Parc de la Villette Paris).
Over a period of 7 years, hundreds of contractors and subcontractors were involved. To solve all the tremendous construction challenges, seven specialized construction/consultancy firms (each with their own discipline) advised and calculated daily to overcome the many technical challenges. Two water pumps supply the three showers with water. On top of the crane is the 2,000-liter water tank for fire protection. Now the crane meets the highest safety requirements.
The construction with sewer, water, electricity has been complicated. The rotating thrust bearing houses all recesses that can move independently from each other. The crane still turns in the wind. Everyday a new view.
In the first three years in, the team had to deal with a 500 pounder WOII bomb. There were many financial setbacks due to safety regulations and inventions. The foundation cost per suite is approximately € 1 million euro.
How did Edwin get the idea?
“Always the first question I have to answer…The crane is a huge industrial building. A famous landmark and heritage in the highest category. This colossus inspired me. I’ve been a real estate developer since I was 17, so 40 years of experience now.
First of all you need to be creative and a bit crazy to develop the 3 most expensive suites in top of a monumental harbour crane.
I wanted to make a statement! My dream was to create a tool to contribute to the realization of my mission statement:
“Problems can be solved if people have the courage to communicate”
Faralda is just a tool. I want to make an active contribution to the realization of my Mission statement. To realize this goal, I had to conquer all financial and constructions challenges. I started (from Social security) with only € 1 to spend and many others to solve. These problems were immense, but we fixed it.”Edwin
(Owner Faralda Crane Hotel)
info@faralda.com
Faralda Crane Hotel is the restored monumental harbor crane 13 and nowadays a mind-blowing experience. The famous landmark houses on top three amazing apartments and a studio for Corporate and Music events.
The view over the harbor and Amsterdam is majestic. The industrial giant is based on the river IJ in the middle of the NDSM. This former shipyard has become a lively bustling area with numerous trendy restaurants, cafés and (2020) the largest graffiti museum in the world.
At the top you can find three luxurious design suites and the studio for Private Parties and Corporate & Music events. Faralda Crane Hotel is undoubtedly Amsterdam’s biggest unknown place. We love to keep it that way.
We’re not a mainstream hotel. Free Spirits, CEOs, world-leading DJs, famous models, artists, and many others found this secret spot their home away from home.
Each suite is a huge 5 star luxurious designed cube with 2 floors. A beautifully decorated living and separate bedroom with king-size bed and a bath tube. There is a separate bathroom with a rain shower, a secluded toilet. On top of the crane, you will find the heated SPA pool. Especially at night time an amazing view at the Harbor with all its flickering lights.