André Rieu's Birthplace Refurbished

"Rieu House" Refurbished

MONUMENT: The Meuse Valley Housing Association converts a dwelling near the Poort (Gate) Waerachtig into two apartments by John Hoofs. 

Near the Poort Waerachtig, inside the city walls, the final tasks are being completed on a full refurbishment of a monumental building on the Jeker, the birthplace of André Rieu.

The contractor is a somewhat strange owner: the housing association "Meuse Valley." Corporations sometimes have a portfolio whereby one sometimes raises his eyebrows. It was once in bygone times, purchased and then sometimes the question arises as to what to do with such a strange duck. Thus the housing association Meuse Valley owned a monument near the Poort Waerachtig, a large white house on the Jeker where André Rieu saw light for the first time on October 1, 1949.

What should a corporation now do with such a property? Property Manager Camiel Kruchten does not know when the Meuse Valley Association took possession of the property. What he does know though is that such a monument reflects on the identity of the corporation. Not only to provide people with small budgets suitable housing, but also maintaining valuable monuments in the city.

Kruchten: "That is something that characterizes us: community involvement." The Meuse Valley Association had to think as to what to do with the dilapidated and damp monumental building when the last occupant, the mother of the world famous violinist left. To start with: it needed to be presented in a socially responsible manner. This also included as to whether it could be converted into a youth hostel. Eventually it was decided to refurbish the dwelling with the assistance of a sheltered employment force. 

It was selected to be used as commercial rental property. The large building, about 350 square meters (3767 square feet) of floor space, was divided into two apartments. They have already been rented, even though they still need to be completed. The completion is in full swing, with next week the garden. The rent is around 1500 Euros per month, and based on a cost analysis "For that location it is justifiable." (Note: The Jeker is a small river running through Maastricht and alongside André’s birthplace.) 

Thanks to John for The Article and Translating it for us!