ROYAL TICHELAAR
Koninklijke Tichelaar creates ceramics for construction and industry. Think of tiles, roof tiles and architectural ceramics; you'll find them not just in the Netherlands, but far beyond as well. I visited Tichelaar for the restoration of the Vlietermonument. On the day I was walking around there, they were almost finished with the tiles and sills for the monument. Tichelaar mainly works on commission for architects and makes truly stunning architectural ceramics. But there's also one regular customer closer to home: the local roofers in Friesland. For them, they make the ridge tile that goes on top of the peak of a thatched roof. For the Vlietermonument, they made the tiles and sills in various colours. Interesting to note: the original tiles were made back then by a pottery factory that was also located in Makkum. You can find the tiles and sills on the restored Vlietermonument on the Afsluitdijk.
Put your production process centre stage
I visualise complex manufacturing processes, so clients see exactly what you can do.
Does this seem interesting for your factory or process? I'm happy to brainstorm with you
MORE ABOUT THE AFSLUITDIJK
FAQ
Why photography in a restoration project like the Vlietermonument?
A restoration is a unique moment. The craft, the production process, and the people behind it can only be seen for a short time, often before the final result is visible. I capture that process so that clients such as Rijkswaterstaat and contractors can show the story behind the final result.
What do you add besides taking photos?
I know the sector. Through previous work at Rijkswaterstaat, BAM, and the Zuiderzeemuseum, among others, I know what's going on with construction and heritage projects: where the process story lies, which details are important for technology and craftsmanship, and how to translate that into images that work for communication, accountability, or archives.
Can you also photograph producers and suppliers, not just on the construction site?
Yes, like with Tichelaar. The story of a restoration often doesn't start on location, but with the makers of the materials. I show that factory side just as much as the construction site itself.
Why is it important to photograph regularly during a restoration?
Regular photography not only captures progress but also the history of the project. Beautiful, carefully taken photos ensure that in the future, people can look back on exactly how a restoration was carried out, step by step.
What does this mean for heritage and history?
Monuments like the Vlietermonument are part of Dutch heritage. A restoration is therefore not just a technical project, but also a historic moment. Good photography captures that moment for future generations: what the craftsmanship looked like, which materials were used, and how the monument has been preserved for the future.
Who is this relevant for?
For architects, contractors, and government agencies who want their restoration or construction project documented: as process documentation, for the press and communication, or as an archive for the future.
Do you also work with drone footage on these kinds of projects?
Yes, I have an EU drone license (A1/A2/A3) and use drone footage where it adds value, for example, to show the scale of a monument or construction site.