Rob van de Velde tells how, after the 2019 purchase of various establishments around the Ijzeren Man lake resort at Vught, they had the chance to tackle it thoroughly . He is co-owner of the hospitality section of the business that runs various restaurants/cafés on the lake: from Het Strandhuys to the neighbouring pavilion with three halls, Benelux's largest climbing forest, and the kiosk with sunbed hire right on the beach. "We luckily had an investor who really likes to get on with the job", he explained regarding the rigorous renovation of the recreation concept.
“Het Strandhuys underwent a true metamorphosis. Only the walls and roof were left standing, all the rest was updated”. What's special about the renovation is the 365-day terrace concept that enables them to make the most of the precious metres between restaurant and lake in both winter and summer. “The terrace got a sun lounge with a glass roof that can be really easily opened automatically in two minutes. Glass sections can be added or removed from the front and sides. That must be done manually and it does cost a bit more time, but provides lots of flexibility". And that not only applies to the winter, but also to cool or overcast days in spring or summer, explained Van de Velde.
It was actually a coincidence, but the same also applies to the interior. Van de Velde: "We chose for summer and winter furniture that we intended to switch around with the seasons. But in our first winter season, when we had to close due to lockdown, we decided to skip the switch and leave the winter furniture in the sun lounge. These chairs are upholstered and match the indoor furniture. We liked that unity, and it also worked better for the acoustics. Another chair is used on the outdoor terrace, but in the same style as those indoors. So from inside, even right at the back, you can see all the way out to the lake and the atmosphere remains harmonious".
The business remained open during the renovation that took up all of 2019. "Then when we were completely finished and wanting to reopen with a big bang, we had to deal with COVID, just like everyone else", sighed the hospitality director. "And now we in the third lockdown. That makes it difficult to say how it's now going with the renewed concept. But it's certainly obvious how flexible we are with this terrace. Whereas seasonal businesses often have to deal with peaks in fine weather and lack of space in winter with all the associated business consequences, we can easily make the switch. From an occupancy of more than 750 seats with fine weather, all day long, to a sun lounge set-up with 300 seats.” By now, guests increasingly know their way to the Strandhuys IJzeren Man, whether the sun shines or not. “The summer of 2021 was not so warm, even very wet. But people still came, and they could enjoy the sun lounge. The vibe is warm and welcoming, with good furniture and lovely plants. You can come here for coffee and cake, a house wine, but also a more chic glass of wine from the menu. It's a really wonderful place - not too trendy, just cosy - at a unique location in Brabant. We just can't wait (once the pandemic is over!) to make the most of it all, and to use every metre of our indoor-outdoor terrace to the maximum".
