House of Westerlicht in the snow, 2021

by Mike Bing

Former retirement home "Huize Westerlicht" dating from 1931-1932 with associated landscaping, built to a design by the Alkmaar architect D. Saal Czn. (Zwaag 1884 - Alkmaar 1945) in Late Amsterdam School style. Client was the board of "Westerlicht, Vereeniging van Diaconieën in de Ned. Hervormde Kerk Alkmaar" (founded by R.D. of 19-3-1930). In 1934, the old people's home was extended at the back left with a wing in the same style. "Huize Westerlicht" is very prominently situated on the northeast side of the Pr. Julianalaan opposite the deer park in the Alkmaarderhout and is separated from the public road by a spacious forecourt with a pond.

Westerlicht is owned by Noordwest Hospital Group. Westerlicht was rebuilt and renovated from 2020. The historic facades were left completely intact. The interior was made suitable for housing the Noordwest Academy and various office functions, such as the human resources, finance and procurement departments. In December 2020, these departments will transfer to Westerlicht. On the north side of Westerlicht, demolition of existing hospital buildings will create a large open space. This is where the expansion of Northwest will be built in the coming years. Sender: Rien van Zuijlen, secretary, North West Historical Commission