An impressive project. Nice.
Apart from the feel good factor of not wasting an existing asset, repurposing a building sometimes enables a quicker build when planning regulations and opposition from political pressure groups are to be considered. On the other hand activities such as the removal of nasties such as asbestos, lead and arsenic still have to be done as well as making old buidings more earth quake resistant and easier to exit in the event of disasters or fire have to be done - old building or not. So no free lunches!
That makes sense, Hugh. That said, though, the Netherlands should not suffer from the earthauake like Japan. Also, considering the original purpose, the building could be built to last for a long time. My other concern is its cost for the heating cost. The efficiency should be considerably low to heat such a huge space.
