What is a wharf cellar (werfkelder)?
A wharf cellar, in Dutch “werfkelder”, is a cellar under the street alongside a canal that opens on the water side onto a wharf: a low quay just above water level. The best-known examples are along the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht in Utrecht, where the street runs high, the cellars lie beneath it and the wharf runs low beside the water.
History
According to the City of Utrecht, construction of the first cellars began as early as the twelfth century, shortly after the Oudegracht was dug. Goods arrived by boat, were carried across the wharf and stored in the cellar, which was connected to the house on the street. The canals and wharves are now protected as the national monument “Stadsbinnengrachten en werven”.
Construction
- The cellars are mostly covered by brick barrel vaults that carry the street above.
- On the water side, the cellar front and the quay wall form the boundary with the wharf.
- Because traffic runs over the vaults, they are sensitive to loads, vibration and leaks.
Use today
Originally the cellars were used mainly for storage. Today they house restaurants and cafés, workshops, studios and storage, and some are homes.
Ownership and repair
In Utrecht the quay walls belong to the city, while the cellars and buildings mostly belong to private owners and businesses. Many cellars and quay walls need repair, and the city is restoring them step by step in a long-term programme.
Points for owners and users
- Damp: leaking vaults and quay walls are the main problem. Find the cause before lining or insulating.
- Do not seal it in: vapour-tight finishes on old brickwork can trap moisture. Use breathable materials or get advice.
- Consent: work on structure, facade or vault needs prior agreement with the city because of the heritage status.
- Loads: do not install heavy plant or storage without checking the load capacity of the vault.
Related terms
- Cellar
- Barrel vault
- Caisson cellar
- Restoration
- Listed building
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