Sustainable Rotterdam

We claim that "Rotterdam is re-inventing itself", and it shows by numerous transformations which bring new services and system organization to the urban scene. We believe that interventions in the form of iconic structures re-enforce the identity of the city. It is already happening at the Centraal Station, and it will certainly happen with the upcoming Markthal.

Markthal is the future indoor market of Rotterdam, located next to Blaak and which will open its doors by the end of 2009. Meanwhile market tradition in Netherlands is based in temporary settlements with weekly schedule (Tuesday & Saturday for Blaak market) permanent indoor markets can be found all around the world. Barcelona's Boqueria, Tokyo's Tjukiji, or Budapest Central Market, act as social hubs re-enforcing the character of city's inhabitants thanks to the numerous interactions happening there.

For Rotterdam Markthal, architect studio MVRDV has planned a multifunctional concept bringing together an indoor market, underground supermarket & parking, and housing at the sides. Little is known about the project; however you can download a pdf presentation.