Zonnestraal Sanatorium

Ever since its completion in 1928, Jan Duiker's Sanatorium 'Zonnestraal' in Hilversum has probably been the most canonical and internationally celebrated example of Modern Movement architecture in The Netherlands. After an extensive restoration of more than thirty years, the project is completed. The book Zonnestraal Sanatorium: The History and Restoration of a Modern Monument describes the process. The restoration of Zonnestraal started in 1982 and was carried out by the architects Hubert-Jan Henket and Wessel de Jonge. The tale of the struggle for recognition of Zonnestraal’s enduring value and the complexity of its restoration reads like a thriller, but at the same time represents a crucial dossier for the stewardship of monuments of the recent past. The ensemble of buildings is a national monument that enjoys international regard as one of the architectural highlights of the 20th century. Barry Bergdoll (chief curator of architecture and design MoMa) called Zonnestraal; “A gem of concrete and glass.” This monograph presents analyses by renowned international experts about the Zonnestraal complex’s genesis as well as the architectural, technical, landscape related aspects of its restoration. Zonnestraal Sanatorium: The History and Restoration of a Modern Monument is richly illustrated with historical visual materials, using plans, sketches and photographs that capture the Zonnestraal of today and yesterday in its full glory.