Portlantis | MVRDV

For centuries, the city of Rotterdam and its port have grown together in a symbiotic relationship. In the 21st century, the Port is embarking on one of the most significant changes in its history, as it transitions to sustainable, low-energy operations. How can this change be experienced by the public, making sense of the complexity of the port? Opening today, the MVRDV-designed Portlantis is a visitor and exhibition centre for the Port of Rotterdam located at the port’s western-most point. Comprising a stack of five rotated exhibition spaces, the building stands out from its surroundings with its crimson-red public route from the dunes to its rooftop, while offering spectacular views in all directions of the North Sea, the coastline, and the port.

Occupying a prominent location on the beach of the port’s Maasvlakte 2 artificial land extension, Portlantis creates a beacon that is visible from afar. It takes a practical, no-nonsense approach to its educational task, channelling the spirit of the port with its simple functionality, dramatic presence, and industrial materials. The shape of the building is a direct response to the activities taking place inside and out: each floor is square in plan and has a large panorama window that frames a different view of the surroundings. The orientation of each floor, and the direction its main window faces, corresponds to its function: on the ground floor café, this window faces westward and provides an intimate view of the dunes, while diners in the fourth-floor restaurant can enjoy views of both sunsets over the North Sea and the illuminated skyline of the port at night.

Photography: Ossip van Duivenbode