Rotterdam's architecture

It has been only three months since I've started living in Rotterdam and the place's a metropolitan area with a pinch of awe-inspiring medieval masterpieces. The Covid-19 restrictions have made it a bit difficult for me to explore all the city, but I've managed to check out most of the inspirational buildings.

These are specific panoramic views that I see on a daily basis that have impacted greatly my architectural vision and fulfilled my artistic expectations.

I will describe some of them briefly only to be continuing my analysis in a more decent manner, after some time...

The Cube Houses

As soon as I arrived in Rotterdam I wanted to see the famous cubic houses, which now are turning into a familiar view. Each time I look at the cubicles, I find a new way of perceiving them, a different angle or so. The yellow color gives me a sense of comfort, that bearing in mind that Rotterdam's majestic concrete sky-high constructions can be a bit too frightening sometimes. The cubes clustering with each other remind me of a small community, remind me of a very heartwarming feeling while being away from my motherland.

Nieuwe Luxor Theatre

Every time I hear the station announcement in the tram about this theatre my head turns automatically towards it. The luscious red color attracts me immensely every time. I can only imagine (or probably just buy a ticket) the amazing view of River Maas that visitors get to enjoy when they're inside. It combines a very classical approach of design but with a more dominant side of modern style.

Except being a leader artistically, Nieuwe Luxor Theatre is also a main figure in my own special Rotterdam's finest list. I can only hope to soon be able to get inside and why not give more content about the interior details.

Erasmus Bridge

As a sizeable city, Rotterdam has many bridges but the Erasmus Bridge, is undoubtedly the best known.

Passing by it gives me a sense of calmness, especially when I'm listening to good music.

The asymmetric pylon with its bracket construction in sky-coloured steel can appear thin as a needle, or wide as a harp, even though sometimes it also looks a bit like a swan. The long, diagonal cables physically and metaphorically link Rotterdam South to the City Centre. At night, when the bridge is reduced to a silhouette, a special light projects the interior of the bridge, with its bundled cables rising high above the water as a dematerialized reflection of its daytime identity.

Rotterdam is a gateway to Europe. Like a phoenix rising from its ashes, after a complete destruction after the WW2, it managed to rebuild into a exalted skyscraper land. The cultural diversity that characterizes the city has also impacted the way I see urban areas.

Every piece of architectural art you feature here is so unique, yet they really come together in a cohesive way that spans different eras of design and innovation. Rotterdam is home to different looking buildings who complement each other very well, while also being within the non-bizarre looking range.

Some of my friends describe it as a small New York whereas I would say it is a bit superficial but nonetheless true.

Rotterdam is a never ending construction site. It evolves but preserving its authenticity is what makes it special. Here I feel home because I relate to its architectural style in more than a way...