on account of loving architecture

I’m an architectural nitwit, living in one of the most exciting places, when it  comes to modern buildingstyles. Or so I’ve been told. But following plan got my heart beating a little faster too.

 

Plans are being made for a permanent markethall, in the style of a Valencia and Madrid hall. It will be situated at the Blaak square, next to the massive Laurens church.

 

For years, a big market is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays in this square. It’s characterised by a liveliness that really makes the city-centre spark. The stalls vary from the most exotic fruits and unknown sorts of fishes to the fanciest second-hand clothing. I believe the market is the only place where different cultures mingle without it being forced upon them by politics. Hipsters looking for a new leather jacket, nod to big mama’s, doing their shopping for their family dinners.

 

To have a permanent market, it seems to me, will only increase the liveliness and cohesiveness of the citycentre. Apart from that social aspect, it will look totally awesome.

 

Look at this plan made by architect Winy Maas. A 40 metre high building which will consist of 288 houses, 1200 underground parkingspaces and 6200 square metres for commerce. Now it’s up for a political discussion, with the right-winged opposition bullying about money and building-cooperations sneaking their way out of the plans. But from the core of my architectural nitwit heart comes the sincere belief that this will be one of the best buildings ever being built in Rotterdam. Can’t wait!