By A Unique Cultural Hub
In the heart of Rotterdam’s Museum Park, MTD landscape architects, in collaboration with MVRDV, have crafted a distinctive public space centered around the new Boijmans van Beuningen Depot. As the world’s first museum to grant access to its entire collection, Boijmans van Beuningen offers visitors the opportunity to explore a staggering 151,000 works of art while witnessing the intricate processes of restoration and conservation. Rooted in the belief that art should be experienced firsthand and made accessible to all, the Depot’s design endeavors to foster openness and inclusivity, providing a welcoming haven within the bustling city.
A Verdant Oasis
At the core of the design for the square and roof landscape lies a commitment to endow the surroundings of the depot with a distinct identity, reminiscent of a lush forest realm. The innovative plan, characterized by shard-like structures, seamlessly extends from the forecourt to the rooftop, creating a cohesive landscape that blurs the boundaries between ground level and sky. Carefully integrated planters, drainage lines, and wooden benches evoke the notion that the depot has organically merged with its environment. The rich vegetation, comprising Pinus nigra, Betula pendula, and stinzen planting, envelops visitors in a serene ‘forest room’ experience, tailored to thrive within the climatic conditions of both the forecourt and the rooftop. Elevated planting areas in the forecourt accommodate the region’s high groundwater levels, ensuring the vitality of the trees while maintaining a sustainable ecosystem.
Fostering Community Engagement
The leafy expanse of the square serves as an inviting venue for intimate events, such as the Parade, seamlessly integrating the depot into the vibrant fabric of Rotterdam’s urban life. The depot’s striking mirrored facade further enhances its integration with the surrounding greenery, transforming the forecourt into a tranquil oasis for communal gatherings and contemplative moments. While public access to the rooftop is limited, those fortunate enough to ascend are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Museum Park and Rotterdam’s iconic skyline, offering a unique perspective from the terrace and the enchanting ‘forest edge.’
Conclusion
Through meticulous design and thoughtful integration of natural elements, the Depot Boijmans van Beuningen emerges as more than a repository of art; it becomes a dynamic cultural nexus that bridges the gap between urban living and artistic expression. By seamlessly blending architecture with nature, this innovative space invites visitors to embark on a sensory journey, where art, landscape, and community converge to inspire, engage, and uplift.
