mecanoo has revealed more details about the maritime center it has designed as part of a recently unveiled masterplan for the rotterdam rijnhaven. to be located in the middle of the harbor, the organically-shaped building contrasts with the rational, industrial design of the port. conceived as a place for maritime entrepreneurs, science, and culture, the inviting and welcoming structure will be accessible to the public offering privileged views of the surrounding port.

mecanoo maritime center rotterdam
image © plomp | main image © mecanoo

 

 

the mecanoo-designed maritime center will form a key element of the ‘rondje rijnhaven’ as well as the jetty path across the harbor. part of the building will be underwater, meaning that the building will offer an extensive program without becoming too large for the port in terms of size and scale. at low tide, the submerged part of the building becomes visible, making the tidal difference of 1.5 to 2 meters tangible. the interior underwater spaces are suitable for exhibitions, with round skylights that protrude above the water offering ideal indirect illumination.

mecanoo maritime center rotterdam
image © mecanoo

 

 

the architects explain that a multi-layered route that runs under, along, over, and through the maritime center gives shape to the design and structures the organization of the building. the realization of the masterplan will see the water become more frequently used, meaning that the port must allow for an increased range of activities. the maritime center is part of a masterplan drawn up by development firm RED company. with the approval of the vision, the plan will be further developed and dialogue will be initiated with local parties. see designboom’s previous coverage of the project here.

mecanoo maritime center rotterdam
image © plomp

mecanoo maritime center rotterdam
image by ATCHAIN, © RED company

mecanoo unveils maritime center as part of rotterdam's rijnhaven masterplan
image by ATCHAIN, © RED company

mecanoo unveils maritime center as part of rotterdam's rijnhaven masterplan
masterplan | image © RED company

mecanoo unveils maritime center as part of rotterdam's rijnhaven masterplan
maritime center | image © mecanoo

 

 

project info:

 

name: maritime center rotterdam
location: rijnhaven, rotterdam

architect: mecanoo
size: 15,000 sqm
status: ongoing
project design: 2020