The bold, modern architecture in Rotterdam is one of the city’s biggest draws, making it the perfect destination for those interested in contemporary design. From quirky accommodation to towering bridges, Rotterdam has something for everyone when it comes to spotting impressive architecture. Read on to discover some of the modern buildings and structures in Rotterdam that simply can’t be missed.
1. Rotterdam Cube Houses
If you’re interested in finding unique architecture in Rotterdam, look no further than the striking Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen). Built between 1982 and 1984, these wonderful buildings stand out for many reasons. Bright yellow in colour, Rotterdam’s Cube Houses sit upon their own individual concrete pillars to create the illusion of them being trees gathered together in a fabulous architectural forest. There are 40 Cube Houses in total, and each is tilted at 45 degrees to make the most of the space that they occupy. Designed to act as a safe and peaceful place for residents, the Cube Houses are set above shops, a school, and even a playground for those who live there.
Each Cube House is three storeys high and boasts a kitchen, living area, two bedrooms, and panoramic views. For those who’d like to experience staying in a cube themselves, your dream can become a reality thanks to the fact that one of the larger cubes is now a hostel – Stayokay Hostel Rotterdam. If you’d prefer to just have a look around, you can opt for a tour of the Show Cube, where you can see what they look like and find out about some of the challenges that come with living in one! Rotterdam’s Cube Houses can be found in the city’s Oude Haven region, next to the Rotterdam Blaak train station. Surrounded by restaurants and cafés, you’ll easily find somewhere to stop off for a bite to eat and a drink when you visit the Cube Houses.
2. Maastoren
As the tallest building in the Netherlands, the Maastoren has a prominent spot in Rotterdam’s skyline. Boasting two towers, the highest of which reaches 181m when you include its mast, the Maastoren can be seen from different points along the River Maas, and has been constructed using aluminium. The colour of the tallest tower becomes lighter the further up the building you look, and 22 shades of grey were used in its creation. It is then topped with a glass viewing gallery, completing its 44 floors. The building was designed with sustainability in mind, and uses a carbon neutral system, whilst utilising the temperature of the river it sits next to. In fact, part of the river has to be drained during the Maastoren’s construction too!
Unfortunately, you can’t go into the Maastoren as the building is full of offices. However, once you’ve admired it from the outside you’ll find plenty to do in the Wilhelminakade area where it’s located. For example, head to the Wilhelminapier. Surrounded by other impressive architecture, this pier used to be the site where ships would leave from to take people to their new lives in New York between 1901 and 1971. You might also like to spend some time in Hotel New York, where you can have a drink and something to eat while you admire Rotterdam’s skyline.
3. Euromast
From the Netherlands’ tallest building to its tallest manmade structure, the Euromast is certainly an impressive example of architecture in Rotterdam. Standing at 185m tall, the Euromast was originally built for the first Floriade International horticulture exhibition, and has been improved upon since then to create one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The Euromast’s name was chosen because of Rotterdam’s position at the centre of the European Economic Area, and due to the fact that the word ‘mast’ is recognised in a number of languages.
These days, you can eat at the Euromast’s restaurant 96m in the sky, take in the views from 100m high, or even dare to ride the rotating elevator right to the top of the structure for unmissable panoramas. If you’re hoping for an adrenaline rush, you can choose to abseil your way down the structure from 100m – a great way to add extra excitement to your Rotterdam break. This is the highest abseil opportunity in Europe, and runs every weekend from May until September. Alternatively, for a more luxurious twist to your trip, you might like to opt for a stay in one of the Euromast’s suites. With a Jacuzzi and your own private balcony, this accommodation is perfect for those hoping for a bit of romance in Rotterdam.
4. Erasmus Bridge
The striking Erasmus Bridge (or Erasmusburg) stretches across the Maas River for 800m, connecting the north and south of the city, and is undeniably Rotterdam’s most famous bridge. Constructed using light blue steel, this cable-stayed bridge was created between 1994 and 1996, and has become an instantly recognisable symbol of the city. Reaching 139m in height, the Erasmus Bridge is also the tallest bridge in the Netherlands, and is affectionately known as ‘the Swan’ due to its resemblance to this graceful creature.
By crossing the Erasmus Bridge, you can travel between the regenerated, modern neighbourhood of Kop van Zuid and the historic Veerhaven, where you can marvel at traditional buildings and old ships, giving you the chance to explore the two sides of Rotterdam. You’ll also find that the Erasmus Bridge is home to a number of events and celebrations, including being an integral part of the city’s World Port Days, and playing a part in the Marathon of Rotterdam – which is the Netherlands’ largest running event. In addition to this, the bridge has appeared in films, hosted dance events, and even made up part of the Tour de France route.
5. Niewe Luxor Theatre
Sat alongside the River Maas, the Niewe Luxor Theatre is a stunning building, and often referred to as being the prettiest theatre in the Netherlands. Built between 1996 and 2001, the Niewe Luxor is Rotterdam’s main theatre, and has the capacity to seat around 1500 people. The theatre is red in colour to represent traditional stage curtains, which certainly makes it stand out from its surroundings, and its interior is just as striking, boasting wide staircases, glass columns, and an impressive entrance hall. Unrivalled views of the city can be enjoyed from the Niewe Luxor Theatre’s foyer and roof terrace, and its position next to the Erasmus Bridge makes it easy to find.
A whole range of short and long-run productions can be discovered at the Niewe Luxor Theatre, including musicals, cabaret, dance, operas, concerts, and even circus performances. With a programme to suit people of all ages, you’re sure to find something you’d like to see during your holiday in Rotterdam. There’s plenty of parking nearby if you’re travelling with your car, and the Wilhelminaplein metro station is just a short walk away, plus there’s a tram that stops right outside, so getting to the theatre couldn’t be any more convenient.
Now that you know where to find the best modern architecture in Rotterdam, book your ferry crossing from Hull today and get ready to explore with P&O Ferries.
