Nieuwenhuijs & Peetoom will give live demonstrations of traditional windmill construction.

They will be working on a mill sail and gear wheels, and if you’re feeling inspired, you’re welcome to try it yourself!

Bart Nieuwenhuijs began collecting antique items from Zaan-region windmills and houses as a child and was an active member of the model-building club at Molen Het Pink in Koog aan de Zaan. This early interest sparked his lifelong passion for windmills, Zaan timber construction, and traditional craftsmanship. After completing a carpentry program at a vocational school (LTS), Bart continued his training through the SPB apprenticeship system and worked at De Zeug, a Zaan restoration company specializing in historic wooden interiors. He later completed specialized training in restoration carpentry and a night course in construction management, and in 2002, he founded his own business.

Together with his partner Giel Peetoom, Bart now proudly runs the renowned restoration company Nieuwenhuijs & Peetoom.

They also offer apprenticeships and trainee placements for young people interested in becoming future craftspeople.

Giel Peetoom also discovered the craft at a young age, joining the same model-building club at just ten years old. “Giel started as my apprentice and has now become my business partner. How beautiful is that!” Bart says proudly.

In addition to live demonstrations, Bart Nieuwenhuijs will also give a lecture about a remarkable restoration project.

Giel Peetoom and Bart Nieuwenhuijs. Photo Danielle Lakeman