Rotterdam is a city full of unique, modern architecture, including its famous Cube Houses. Here, we take a look at what Rotterdam’s Cube Houses are, and why you should visit them during your trip to Rotterdam.
Do you want to Travel to the Netherlands in 2023 and Explore the Infamous Rotterdam Cube Houses!
History of the Cube Houses in Rotterdam
Rotterdam’s Cube Houses were created to overcome the dilemma that Rotterdam town planners had over how to build houses over a pedestrian bridge. The bridge in question takes people over one of the area’s business roads and into the city centre, and planners wanted to make more out of this space. Architect Piet Blom was chosen to take on this challenge in the 1970s, and expanded on cube designs he’d already implemented in the Dutch city of Helmond.
How were the Cube Houses designed?
The Cube Houses were designed to sit at 45° atop hexagonal pillars, to fit in with Blom’s concept of “living as an urban roof”. Each of the cubes represents a tree, with the collection of them forming a type of architectural forest. Built to optimise interior space, the houses’ walls and windows sit at a 54.7° angle, which can mean that buying furniture for them is a bit difficult. The Cube Houses have concrete walls and pillars, and a wooden frame, and each one has a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and a bathroom, plus some have a rooftop garden space too. Each one has an area of 100m², although only around a quarter of the space is usable due to its shape.
Where are the Cube Houses in Rotterdam?
You can find the Cube Houses on Rotterdam’s Overblaak Street, right by the Blaak metro station. There are 38 small cubes and two ‘super cubes’ in total, and their bright yellow colour means that you won’t be able to miss them. Surrounded by bars and cafes, this area is perfect for grabbing lunch or a refreshing drink, so you might like to explore a bit either side of visiting the Cube Houses.
Can I see inside the Cube Houses?
People live in Rotterdam’s Cube Houses, so peering through the windows isn’t advised. However, one savvy owner decided to open their furnished cube to visitors, and now conducts tours so that people can see what the houses look like inside. This Cube House Museum, or Kijk-Kubus, will give you an idea of what it might be like to live in one of these architectural wonders, and you can enjoy great panoramic views of the area too.
Can I stay in a Cube House?
Yes, thanks to the Stayokay Hostel, which has been set up in one of the ‘super cubes’, you can stay in one of the Cube Houses during your time in Rotterdam. The hostel offers guests free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast, and has a bistro, bar, and vending machine. It also offers bike hire and a packed lunch service for a surcharge, making it just as convenient as it is unique.
Now that you know all about the Cube Houses and why you should visit them, book your Hull to Rotterdam ferry crossing today.
