From PTT to data traffic
Built in 1963 as a microwave relay system for PTT (later KPN), this tower played a key role in long-distance telephone traffic for years. When the high-rise on the Zuidas began to advance from the 2000s onwards, the tower threatened to lose its reach. The solution? In 2009 it was raised by tens of metres to 150 metres. Those 150 metres were the maximum height because of the approach route to Schiphol. At the same time it got an aesthetic update: the concrete shaft was painted azure blue to fit in better with the modern Zuidas architecture.
Since then the tower has been one of the tallest structures in the city. The owner is no longer KPN, but Cellnex, formerly Alticom. That's a Spanish company that owns more masts of this kind.
Art at 120 metres up: White Noise
One of the most remarkable elements of the tower is the light artwork White Noise, created by artist Giny Vos. It was realised in 2009, commissioned by Zuidas, with the vision of weaving art into the city in a sustainable and organic way. But this artwork is more than just pretty light: it is a gift to the city.
White Noise is a dynamic installation reminiscent of meteor showers, starry skies, television static and even verification codes. The work symbolises communication, abstract and mysterious at the same time. "Every tower spews something out," says Vos in an interview with Zuidas Blog. "I wanted to give this tower a sign too."
Architecture that stands out through usefulness
Despite its technical function, the tower is a striking sight. Oval platforms are staggered around the concrete shaft, as if the construction kit changed its mind halfway through. The design is by AGS Schwencke Rosbach Architects, with project architect Christof Schwencke. The asymmetry gives the tower character, which is not something you'd quickly say about a simple transmission mast.
Repair after wear and tear: Relight White Noise
Thanks to wind and weather, and at 120 metres up they are pretty fierce, the installation fell into decline over time. Rain feels like needles up there, and peregrine falcons hunt pigeons at 360 km/h. In 2018 the artwork was switched off because of wear on the LEDs. Restoration seemed impossible: many of the parts simply no longer existed.
But Vos didn't give up. Together with Cellnex, the City of Amsterdam and the original supplier, she launched the Relight White Noise project. With new lights (guaranteed until 2030!) and a joint effort, the artwork was restored. On 2 December 2020 at 6 pm the moment came: White Noise was switched back on, and the Zuidas skyline was complete again.
A vanished park at its foot
For years the tower stood in the middle of the Drenthepark, a long strip of green named after the province. That park has since disappeared from the streetscape. In our article on vanished street names we dig deeper into this vanished neighbourhood.
