Fenix Museum, Rotterdam MAD Adaptive Reuse Project
The Fenix Museum, rising in Rotterdam, is a visionary transformation of the former Fenix Warehouse, brought to life by MAD Architect. Focusing on the city’s rich migration history, the project serves not only as a museum but also as a vibrant cultural and social hub.
Historical Context
Built between 1920 and 1923, the Fenix Warehouse stands out for its enormous size. It is 360 meters long and 50 meters wide.
Once a vital storage and transfer point for Holland Amerika Lijn’s (HAL) transatlantic voyages, the structure was located in the heart of Rotterdam’s port area and has left an indelible mark on the city’s commercial history.
Its robust structural system of reinforced concrete columns and beams, columns spaced at 16-metre intervals and floors capable of supporting heavy loads, stood out. Its brick-walled facades and rectangular steel-framed windows reflected the typical features of the industrial architecture of the period. Although it bore the marks of World War II, the renovated warehouse had lost its function with the rise of container transport.
Design Concept
MAD Architects design philosophy was based on meticulously preserving the historical identity of the Fenix Warehouse, while creating dynamic spaces that are suitable for modern museum requirements. The masterful combination of conservation and renovation principles aims to preserve the original structure, impressive facades and atmosphere of the building, while the interior spaces have been adapted to the museum function by reorganizing and adding new elements.
The aim is to offer visitors not only an exhibition area, but also an experiential space where they can deeply interact with the history of the city. While the influences of architectural movements such as Bauhaus and De Stijl are felt in geometric forms, material choices and spatial organization, sustainability principles are also placed at the center of the design.
Architectural Details
The museum’s 16,000 square meter interior area hosts various functions: flexible exhibition areas, interactive educational workshops, a theater hall suitable for performances, a café and restaurant offering opportunities for relaxation and socialization.
The exhibition areas are equipped with movable panels and adjustable LED lighting systems that can meet different display needs. The parquet and concrete used on the floors offer both durability and aesthetic balance, while the exposed ceilings keep the industrial spirit of the building alive.
The glass and steel structure called the “Dutch Pensioners Staircase”, located at the heart of the visitor flow, not only marks the entrance to the museum, but also connects the different exhibition floors, offering panoramic views of Rotterdam as you climb up.
Use of Materials
In the Fenix Museum, past and present materials are harmoniously combined. The restored original brick walls reveal the building’s industrial heritage, while steel (for example in the “Dutch Pensioners Staircase”) offers a modern touch and the ability to cross large openings. Inviting natural light inside and offering panoramic views, glass plays an important role in the windows and stair panels. While the concrete that forms the foundation of the structure is evident in the columns, beams and floors, wood adds warmth and comfort to the interiors. Sustainability principles were observed in the selection of materials, and recycled materials and energy-efficient systems were preferred.
Function and Impact
The Fenix Museum is not just an exhibition space, it is also the place where the multicultural heart of Rotterdam beats. The richness brought by migration resonates in these lands where different lives intertwine. Educational programs and events strengthen social ties while passing these stories on to new generations. With MAD’s touch, Fenix is not just a monument, but a living space that inspires the future of the city It becomes a legacy.
Project: FENIX Migration Museum
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Year: 2018 – 2024
Typology: Museum, Renovation
Area (Site): 13,200 m²
Area (Ramp): 1,050 m²
Height: 28.3 m
Architect: MAD Architects
Project Owner: Droon en Daad Foundation
Responsible Partners: Ma Yansong, Dang Qun, Yosuke Hayano
Deputy Responsible Partner: Andrea D’Antrassi
Team: Neeraj Mahajan, Marco Gastoldi, Edgar Navarrete, Cievanard Nattabowonphal, Jordan Demer, Chen Yien, Yuki Ishigami, Pittayapa Suriyapee, Claudia Hertrich, Alessandro Fisalli
Images: Yoreh Schipper, Iwaan Baan
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