A Cultural Hub in the Heart of the City
By Jasmine Lin | Culture | March 13, 2025
Cover Illustration: De Hallen, February 22, 2025. Jasmine Lin/ The Amsterdammer
De Hallen, once a tram depot, now thrives as a cultural hub in Amsterdam-West. Jasmine Lin explores its transformation.
A Historic Transformation: From Train Depot to Cultural Hub
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam-West, De Hallen Amsterdam has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the city’s artistic and cultural landscape. Since opening in 2014, the former tram depot has been transformed into a dynamic center that fosters creativity, community engagement, and local entrepreneurship. With its unique blend of historic architecture and contemporary functionality, De Hallen offers a home to various cultural institutions, including galleries, studios, cinemas, and artisan markets.
The space hosts regular exhibitions, live performances, and workshops, making it a thriving meeting point for artists, creatives, and residents. Events such as the creative pop-ups highlight the ingenuity of Amsterdam-based designers and craftspeople, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Amsterdam’s creative pulse. The FilmHallen, an independent cinema within De Hallen, further enriches the cultural scene by showcasing a diverse range of films, from mainstream releases to arthouse productions.
De Hallen is currently showcasing a vibrant lineup of events. Ode aan de Kinkerbuurt pays tribute to the dynamic Kinkerbuurt neighborhood, weaving together its rich history and evolving identity through visual art, interactive installations, and live performances. Meanwhile, Echos van Verbinding explores themes of connection and unity, offering visitors an immersive experience that blends diverse artistic mediums with communal expression, reflecting the heartbeat of Amsterdam.
“…The Food Hallen has added to Amsterdam’s culinary flavor by curating an eclectic mix of innovative street food vendors and gourmet eateries that celebrate both local traditions and international tastes.”
The Food Hallen: A Culinary Destination
Beyond its cultural significance, De Hallen contributes to the city’s economy by attracting both locals and tourists to its vibrant mix of boutiques, restaurants, and creative workspaces. The Food Hallen, a gastronomic hotspot located within the complex, offers a wide variety of cuisines from different cultures, drawing food lovers from all over Amsterdam. This lively food market not only supports small businesses and local chefs but also adds to the overall visitor experience, making De Hallen a must-visit destination in the city.
Additionally, The Food Hallen has added to Amsterdam’s culinary flavor by curating an eclectic mix of innovative street food vendors and gourmet eateries that celebrate both local traditions and international tastes. Visitors can indulge in everything from traditional Dutch snacks to Asian street food, Mediterranean flavors, and Latin American specialties. This variety allows for a mix of casual bites and creative energy, making it a vibrant culinary destination that perfectly complements the cultural dynamism of De Hallen.
De Hallen Studio and The Creative Lab: Innovative Event Spaces
A crucial extension of De Hallen’s creative ecosystem is De Hallen Studio, a multifunctional venue that accommodates a wide range of events, including film productions, panel discussions, and corporate gatherings. The studio’s industrial charm and flexible layout make it a sought-after space for both artistic and commercial endeavors. It has been the setting for numerous television programs, film shoots, and live events, providing a space where creativity meets professional execution.
Among its many events, The Creative Lab, a vibrant and stylish pop-up vintage market, brings together fashion enthusiasts, designers, and collectors to celebrate sustainable fashion and unique retro finds. The most recent event took place on Feb. 22, 2025. Held approximately every two months at De Hallen Studio, this event adds to the space’s dynamic appeal, offering visitors to explore curated vintage clothing, accessories, and home decor. One attendee noted, “It’s more like a vibe. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s just a great spot to chill and hang out.”
A Lasting Cultural Legacy
De Hallen has also played a key role in urban renewal, revitalizing Amsterdam-West and strengthening its identity as a cultural district. Initially built in the early 20th century as a tram depot, the complex served as an essential hub for public transportation until its closure in the 1990s. For years, the space remained primarily abandoned, reflecting the broader industrial decline in the area. However, extensive renovations in the early 2010s transformed the historic site into a vibrant cultural destination, blending its industrial past with modern creative spaces. This revival not only preserved its architectural heritage but also created new opportunities for artistic expression, entrepreneurship, and community-driven projects. De Hallen’s ongoing success is reflected in its increasing number of collaborations with local and international artists. This success is evident through various initiatives and partnerships on its official website.
As Amsterdam continues to evolve, De Hallen stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to preserving its heritage while nurturing artistic expression and community engagement. Through immersive art installations, thought-provoking cinema, diverse culinary experiences, and dynamic live performances, it offers a rich cultural experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. Its role as a hub for creative collaborations and community-driven projects has solidified its reputation as one of Amsterdam’s most influential cultural spaces. By providing a platform for emerging talent and fostering diverse artistic expressions, De Hallen remains a vital force in the city’s creative landscape, ensuring its lasting impact for years to come.
Jasmine Lin is a university student in Amsterdam. The views expressed here are not necessarily those of The Amsterdammer.
