URBAN ASCENT
This project reimagines De Doelen in Rotterdam by introducing an architectural intervention that connects the interior to the exterior and enhances the building’s role as a cultural and sustainable landmark. A dynamic tunnel bridges the urban landscape to a new rooftop garden, transforming the building into a vibrant and eco-conscious hub. The garden not only improves air quality and reduces energy consumption through natural insulation but also manages stormwater efficiently and boosts biodiversity. Financially, it adds value to the building, attracting a younger, eco-conscious audience and creating opportunities for revenue through outdoor events.
Together with my teammates, we started this project by visiting the site many times and talking to people walking around or attending events at De Doelen. We also spoke with the media manager, who told us that De Doelen wants to open up to everyone, especially young people. It used to focus on classical music and older audiences, and even though that’s changed, many people still see it that way. We also did participatory research where people could add something to the building by drawing on a simple illustration. From all these methods, we found that most people didn’t really know what the building was, it felt grey and didn’t represent a music institution. Our goal became to add color and make it more open to everyone.
For short-term intervention, we created soft fabric capsules that visitors could enter to feel the atmosphere of De Doelen. From inside, they could also see the exhibition happening in one of the studios, allowing them to look into the venue while being surrounded by its music.
For short-term intervention, we created soft fabric capsules that visitors could enter to feel the atmosphere of De Doelen. From inside, they could also see the exhibition happening in one of the studios, allowing them to look into the venue while being surrounded by its music.
The bold use of red contrasts with the building’s monotone palette, creating a striking visual impact that draws attention and invites engagement. A central staircase offers functional access and an immersive experience as visitors ascend to the garden, while an elevator ensures accessibility for all. This intervention fosters a stronger connection between the building and its users, creating an inclusive, sustainable, and engaging space.
As part of this project, my team and I created a 1:1 model of the staircase made from a perforated metal sheet. It’s painted red, just like in the final design, adding color to the building and drawing people’s attention. After the project, the piece can be reused as a step for a house or repurposed as a shelf.