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Are you a fan of innovative design, cutting-edge urban planning, and a vibrant atmosphere? Then mark your calendars because Rotterdam Architecture Month is just around the corner, happening every June!
As the self-proclaimed "The architectural capital of the Netherlands," Rotterdam truly comes alive during this month-long celebration. From iconic modern structures to groundbreaking new developments, the city offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past, present, and future of architectural excellence.
The Rundown:Â What to Expect
Throughout June, visitors can expect a diverse program of events, including:
- Exhibitions: Showcasing the latest trends and historical masterpieces.
- Lectures and Debates: Featuring renowned architects and urban planners.
- Walking and Cycling Tours: Discovering hidden gems and famous landmarks.
- Open House Events: Gaining exclusive access to buildings not usually open to the public.
- Workshops and masterclasses: For aspiring architects and design enthusiasts alike.
Theme +Â Festival Heart
Schiemond is the Festival Heart, serving as a temporary public space as it's reimagined with installations and gathering spaces built entirely from reclaimed materials. This promises a hands-on, experimental, and thought-provoking exploration of circularity in architecture.
- Installations and Gathering Spaces: Expect to see temporary structures like a grandstand and stage made from leftover construction materials, and a "spreeuwenpaviljoen" (starling pavilion) designed with Studio Method, all intended for reuse after the event.
- Collaborations with local initiatives: Look out for projects by Placebased, Gore Tengels, and ArchitectuurMAKEN, showcasing community-led spatial development.
- "Dit is mijn wijk" (This is my neighbourhood) photography project: This project, focusing on everyday life in Schiemond and the neighboring Lloydkwartier, highlights the human aspect of urban development.
Where to Learn More
- Rotterdam Architecture Month (RA Maand) Official Website: This is your primary source for the most up-to-date program, events, and festival information for the current and upcoming editions. https://rotterdamarchitectuurmaand.nl/en/
- Rotterdam.info - City of Architecture: The official tourism website for Rotterdam has a dedicated section on the city's architecture, including historical context and information on key buildings. They also often list events related to Architecture Month. https://www.rotterdam.info/en/visit/guide/rotterdam-city-of-architecture/
- RotterdamStyle.com: This website provides event listings and articles about various happenings in Rotterdam, including comprehensive coverage of Rotterdam Architecture Month. https://rotterdamstyle.com/events-calendar/rotterdam-architecture-month-events-locations-info
- Het Nieuwe Instituut: As the national museum and institute for architecture, design, and digital culture, Het Nieuwe Instituut often plays a significant role in Rotterdam Architecture Month, hosting exhibitions, lectures, and other events. Check their "Events" section for their specific contributions during June. https://nieuweinstituut.nl/en/events
OMI Rotterdam: This organization focuses on Rotterdam's architecture and often organizes tours and events, including during Architecture Month. https://omirotterdam.nl/en/
Whether you're a seasoned professional, a student, or simply curious about the built environment, Rotterdam Architecture Month offers something for everyone. It's a fantastic chance to explore how design shapes our lives and to witness firsthand the continuous evolution of this dynamic city.
Off the Cutting Room Floor
