Architecture and art
The University of Twente (UT) is the only Dutch university with a real campus: a vast park-like site with buildings for education and research, facilities for sports and culture, housing for students and employees and a shopping center. The buildings that have sprung up over the past 50 years on the former Drienerlo estate are a good illustration of recent architectural ideas. Most of the works of art outside were designed specifically for UT.
This route passes by the beautiful architecture and art of University of Twente campus!
Starting point
The Signal - Bert Meinen
Artist Bert Meinen once had his studio on the UT campus. Many students told him how much they liked this sculpture. In its material, colour and shape, The Signal resembles a traffic sign and that was Meinen’s inspiration in creating this work. Standing tall at the point where most cars, cyclists and pedestrians enter the campus, it could hardly occupy a more fitting location. Geometric shapes and modern materials feature in much of his work, which can be found throughout the Netherlands.
The campus was laid out in 1961 according to the principles of New Objectivity by architects Wim van Tijen and Samuel van Embden. Their urban plan gave a clear structure to the site and placed large buildings in strategic locations. Van Tijen and Van Embden separated living, working and recreation. In response to this businesslike and formal approach, a group of young architects built cozy and exuberant architecture. Starting in 2000, Jan Hoogstad was supervisor architect on the campus; today it is Peter Vermeulen.
Need a moment of rest? Then walk to the Zilverling. This is where Starbucks is located. A Latte, Frappucino or delicious muffin are bound to go down.
End point
Roombeek
After the fireworks disaster in the Roombeek neighborhood in 2000, they decided to make the old Roombeek flow visibly again. From the neighborhood, the stream now meanders to the campus. In 2012, the Regge and Dinkel Water Board constructed the ingenious underpass under Drienerlolaan. The city and the campus are now connected by water.
De Broeierd is a wonderful address to stay overnight. It is built in authentic Saxon style, has 2 restaurants and within 10 minutes you are in downtown Enschede.
Download the PDF. Have fun with hiking!
