The new REC-P opens its doors: “It has a hotel feel”
The REC-P has received a makeover and opened its doors on Monday to students Politics, Psychology, Law, and Economics (PPLE). “Except during study groups, the open spaces are very distracting. People constantly look into the classroom.”
On Monday, February 12th, the REC-P reopened its doors on the Roeterseilandcampus (REC). Following a thorough renovation, the building on Plantage Muidergracht provides space for students of the interdisciplinary English speaking bachelor programm PPLE, including Her Royal Highness the Crownprincess.
Renovation of the building began in 2018. According to the UvA, the REC-P no longer met the requirements of a modern college building. Wherever possible, materials were reused for the renovation such as insulation material, doors, and stair treads. That intention is immediately visible. Upon entering, you encounter the reception area lined with seats made from old lecture benches.
Nils Mevius, PPLE Project Manager, is very happy with the move. “The new building fits very well with the small-scale and intensive education of PPLE. We think it is important that education, study, and work are intertwined. The old Building E, with seven small floors, did not meet this requirement.”
Sparkling water
On the first floor, one immediately notices a luxurious kitchen island with a coffee maker and tap for sparkling water, free for use by students. “The entrance has a hotel feel to it,” says PPLE student Luis Schwenk (21). “The counter, bar, and designer lamps are very stylish.”
In addition to the entrance, students like the open spaces in the building. “The building is bigger and more modern. The glass doors and large windows also allow a lot of natural light into the building,” says PPLE student Bogdan Nacu (19). “Except during study groups, the open spaces are very distracting. People constantly look into the classroom.”
Study spaces
PPLE shares the building with the UvA Academy and Amsterdam Business School. Each floor has spacious study and work areas. This mix of programs does cause some confusion among students. “We have already been turned away from several study places,” says PPLE student Daniël Brâncus (19). “There are now laminated signs hanging there indicating that we are not welcome.”
On the other hand, smokers on the sidewalk in front of the REC-P are not turned away. “One of the things I find relaxing is that as soon as I walk out of the building, I can smoke right away,” Brâncus laughs. After all, as soon as you leave the building you are directly on the public road.
