DoeMere

Almere Buiten's municipal planners figured that the larger home furnishing shops, which in cities are usually located on the outskirts, deserved a more central location in the district. In 1985, a competition was held for a cluster of mega-stores around a large car park next to the existing shopping centre at Buiten station. Chiel Verhoeff's winning design consists of a dozen simple halls, connected by striking tent-like structures above the entrances. These are white pointed hoods of steel and canvas that protrude above everything else. The architecture evokes associations with fairs and festivals and immediately gives shopping a festive feel. From the outset, DoeMere was a progressive concept with a striking appearance. The design, also in terms of materials, proves time-consuming. The 53-metre-high steel tower with a ball of light in the top that accompanies it marks a bold choice. DoeMere has become a landmark for Almeerders.