Van Erven Dorens says the building expresses our distinctive design approach: “I now read this slogan of Rietveld Architects: RETHINKING MODERN LIFE: FROM THE ESSENTIAL TO THE EXUBERANT. The essential is referring to Rietveld’s history as a classic modernist/humanist while working for Hertzberger. The exuberant is referring to the postmodern style of the international jet set. The architect is interacting with both worlds. This is visible if you look at the design of the headquarters of Amvest. The shape of the building is formed by functional principles: the idea to let the building literally reach into the harbor to express the symbolic meaning of a harbor building. At the same time, the quay below the building should not be blocked. The floating part of the building is double-height and serves as a working space, lobby and living room. One big lounge, with an exuberant and stylish interior that is surprising to see in an office building.”