DIGITAL NEST Feature: Rotterdam Netherlands

DIGITAL NEST | Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam is a city in the Netherlands located in the province of South Holland and was visited by our EBC Netherlands Bureau where they were able to take beautiful pictures of its natural setting and its people.

The pictures taken depict the great modern architecture that is being created in the land known for its artistic history.

During World War II, Rotterdam was heavily bombarded, so much so, that its city center was nearly destroyed.

Post-World II, the city council decided to rebuild the city not in traditional Dutch architecture motifs, but rather under the modern motto of  “Light, air and space.”

Examples of innovative design include the Kubuswoningen and the Markthal.

Designed by Dutch architect, Piet Blom, the Kubuswoningen, Cube houses, were built in the 70s with the intention of resembling a forest within the city; each house represents a tree, thus the cluster of houses a forest. Visitors can visit a house-museum to see for themselves how residents live in these cube-shaped homes. Fully furnished, take in the unique view and skyline of the area. Next time you’re in Rotterdam, be on the lookout for the yellow hexagon-shaped houses!

If you fancy a break from exploring, head on over a few meters away to the Markthal. The embodiment of “Light, air and space,” Markthal, Market hall, is a feast for all senses! Standing at 40 meters, with its horseshoe shape and glass window facade, the Markthal is an office and residential building with a market hall full of vendors and restaurants. The building is the city’s answer to the restrictions on open air markets. The height of the arch structure gives the impression of strolling through fresh markets, and if you were to look up, you would see one of the largest artworks in the world, Hoorn des Overvloeds, Horn of Plenty, by Arno Coenen which depicts an array of nature’s delights – fruits, vegetables, flowers, and more.

In Rotterdam, you’ll have an endless supply of sites ready to be discovered! Plan ahead, have your best walking shoes ready, and enjoy the Dutch city!


Photo Credit: EBC Netherlands Bureau

Written By:
Marie Francisco
Bernard Guerzon

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