Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba (SMFA) recently marked an important milestone in the restoration of the John G. Eman Building, with the official start of the first phase of the project, which involves the demolition of the non-monumental sections of the historic building, located at Caya Betico Croes 39–41 in downtown Oranjestad.
The official ceremony took place in the presence of Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and the Primary Sector Geoffrey Wever, representatives of Aruba Bank, the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), the Social and Economic Council (SER), architect Bert Kamsteeg, D&C Partners VBA, and other invited guests.
Restoration project
Since the transfer of the building in December 2025, Monumentenfonds has been working intensively on the preparations necessary to carry out the restoration.
On July 22, 2026, BK Consult, under the direction of architect Bert Kamsteeg, was selected to oversee the design work for the project. Together with Monumentenfonds project manager Jenilee Schotborgh, the team worked on the technical plans and documentation required for the next phase.
On October 2, 2026, the tender for the first demolition phase was held, with D&C Partners VBA selected as the contractor.
Demolition with respect for historical value
The demolition phase is not simply about breaking down or removing sections of the building. The work focuses on carefully removing the non-monumental sections, with the aim of preserving and protecting the historical elements that give the building its heritage value.
This process requires precision, patience, and respect for the building’s history, and will pave the way for the restoration of the monument itself.
The demolition phase is expected to last approximately two months, after which preparations for the next phase will continue.
A new future for the John G. Eman Building
Following its restoration, the John G. Eman Building will serve a new purpose, combining public, commercial, and office activities.
The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) and the Social and Economic Council (SER) will establish their offices in the restored building.
In addition, the project includes a restaurant and an apartment, which will contribute to a more dynamic and attractive environment in the historic center of Oranjestad.
This forms part of Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba’s vision: preserving Aruba’s historical heritage while giving monuments a new and sustainable purpose for the future.
Monumentenfonds is currently in the final stages of negotiations to conclude the agreement for the operation of the restaurant and apartment. More information about the operation and the entity that will be responsible for it will be shared in the near future.
Cooperation between different partners
The realization of a project of this magnitude is made possible through the cooperation and trust of various partners.
Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba expresses its gratitude to the Government of Aruba, Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister Geoffrey Wever, Aruba Bank, and the Nationaal Restauratiefonds (National Restoration Fund) for their contributions and cooperation throughout the process.
The foundation also extends its appreciation to the Monumentenbureau (Monuments Office) for its cooperation in restoration projects.
Special thanks go to architect Bert Kamsteeg and his team at BK Consult, as well as D&C Partners VBA, which will be responsible for carrying out the first demolition phase.
Monumentenfonds also thanks CBS and SER for their trust and patience throughout the process, and its own board and team for their dedication and continuous efforts, enabling everyone to work together to preserve Aruba’s past for future generations.
