World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography, ChairWorld Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 3 of 21World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior PhotographyWorld Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Exterior Photography, FacadeWorld Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - More Images+ 16

  • Architects: Mecanoo
  • Area Area of this architecture project Area:  1550
  • Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2021
  • Manufacturers Brands with products used in this architecture project
    Manufacturers:  Ege Carpets, Gabriel, Kvadrat, Twentinox
World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 3 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Text description provided by the architects. The World Port Centre in Rotterdam (WPC) overlooks the city and surrounding harbor from its prominent location at the far western point of the Wilhelmina pier, next to Mecanoo’s iconic Montevideo Tower. Designed by Norman Foster and completed in 2000, the WPC facilities were no longer fit for purpose. Mecanoo was commissioned to upgrade the ground floor and part of the first floor of the 32-story office building. Good accessibility, improved connections to the outside, social interaction, and an inviting street level are principles that guided Mecanoo’s renovation.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography, Table, Lighting, Chair
Courtesy of Mecanoo
World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 6 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Coherent activity-based space with a clear identity. Mecanoo’s user perspective method creates a concept to use the lobby as the start of the working environment by facilitating various activities. The concept enfolds, based on the semi-circle form of Foster’s building, with various rooms where diverse formal and informal activities could be facilitated. Rooms to meet, rooms to drink, rooms to relax, rooms to wait, rooms to work, rooms to have an event. The Rooms both facilitate the formal functions, such as security, the welcome desk, and lockers, as well as more informal amenities like meeting space, lounge areas, and the main bar for bigger events.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography
Courtesy of Mecanoo
World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 8 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

The design uses the space along the facade for seating and locates all facilities along with the building core with improved sightlines and inside-outside connections. Design elements with a strong identity, such as the Rotterdam Port Authority backlit logo and the airy curtain above the bar are visible from the exterior. These iconic elements add value and create a sense of place for the employees and visitors. A new spiral staircase connects the lobby and first floor and offers scenic views of the water.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 9 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo
World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography, Facade
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Various types of planters bring nature indoors and create a healthy atmosphere. A variety of seating options for individuals or groups create spaces to eat, play, create or meet. Stepping down towards the water, a generous terrace acts as an extension of the restaurant. With a bar along the perimeter and integrated planting, the terrace can host different events, from parties to lectures.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography, Dining room, Table, Chair, Windows
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Durable materials were chosen to match the character of the area. The location of the different materials is determined by how the different rooms will be used, both from an acoustic and durability perspective. The lifts lobby was upgraded with cladding that emphasizes the cut in the building core. Water ripple hammered metal panels hint at the harbor, and the new dark ceiling matches the entrance area.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 14 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Sustainability and wellbeing. A safe, inclusive, and comfortable environment ensures a healthy office. Prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all its users, the project pursues WELL certification. To achieve this, Mecanoo’s strategy involved introducing water tap points to stimulate drinking water and reduce wasteful bottle consumption. By using natural sound-absorbing materials we created a pleasant working environment.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 13 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Stairs became more prominent to stimulate movement. The reception and office space were moved to maximize the connections to the outside. We reused many of the existing internal elements and finishes, such as the ceiling, flooring, the ventilation for fresh air, and the convectors for heating the space. We used certified wood and low-maintenance materials that can be re-used. Indoor and outdoor greenery enhances biodiversity creates a healthy atmosphere and improves acoustics.

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Image 17 of 21
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Programme: Renovation and upgrade of the ground floor, mezzanine and terrace areas; new concept, layout and functions: reception, coffee bar, check-in desks, meeting space, seating, lift lobby and terrace (500m2) totalling 1,550 m2 Design: 2020 – 2021 Realisation: 2021 Client: Unifore and Marathon Asset Management

World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo - Interior Photography, Facade, Beam
Courtesy of Mecanoo

Project gallery

See allShow less

Project location

Address:World Port Center, Wilhelminakade 901, 3072 AR Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Click to open map
Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "World Port Centre Rotterdam / Mecanoo" 18 Feb 2022. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/977099/world-port-centre-rotterdam-mecanoo> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.