Dear readers,
A lot has happened behind the walls of Hotel De Gulden Leeuw over the past month! There has been demolition, some fascinating discoveries, and construction work is already underway again. Not everything went according to plan, but when working on a building with such a long history, surprises are simply part of the journey.
A Glimpse into 120 Years of Building History
While removing several layers of ceilings, we uncovered the original ceiling. The construction details and various layers of paint gave us a fascinating insight into how the building was once laid out.
We even discovered a former staircase opening and the name of a plasterer written in the old plasterwork. A wonderful little glimpse into the past!
An Unexpected Delay
During the renovation, small traces of asbestos were discovered. Despite the limited amount, work had to be temporarily suspended for investigation and professional removal.
This resulted in a delay of approximately three weeks. Fortunately, that is now behind us!
Two Businesses, One Historic Building
In the future, the restaurant and hotel will operate as two separate businesses. To make this possible, we are creating a proper structural separation, with particular attention to fire safety and sound insulation.
We are also renewing the pipework and separating the water, gas and electricity supplies.
Will There Be a Restaurant Again?
Absolutely! The restaurant will remain a restaurant.
However, the layout will change. The toilets will be relocated towards the front of the building, near the familiar small step. Behind this area, the hotel extension will begin, with the first new rooms located near the former green side door of the bar.
The Hotel Remains Open!
Despite the renovation work, our hotel remains open as usual. In fact, we are regularly fully booked at weekends!
During the week, we mainly welcome business guests in the four rooms on the top floor.
Building in the Heart of Workum
Renovating a building right on the Market Square sometimes requires a little flexibility. During local events such as Veekeuringsdag (the annual livestock show) and the Strontrace (a traditional sailing race), our construction vehicles make way for visitors and activities.
We will do the same during the Winter Fair on Friday, 6 November.
What Happens Next?
Over the coming weeks, we will continue working on the separation between the hotel and restaurant, as well as the pipework and technical installations.
We expect to have made substantial progress with this phase by the end of November.
After that, our focus will shift to the new hotel rooms, which we expect to welcome guests from August 2027.
Finally
Renovating a historic building is always a special experience. Behind every ceiling lies another story, sometimes accompanied by an unexpected surprise!
Thank you for your patience, interest and continued support.
Do you have any questions or would you like to know how the renovation is progressing? Feel free to stop by or contact me directly.
Warm regards,
Pieta Visser
Hotel Manager
Hotel De Gulden Leeuw
