Portlantis Visitor and Exhibition Center / MVRDV

A machine for storytelling: MVRDV's Portlantis offers visitors a new perspective on the Port of Rotterdam. For centuries, the city of Rotterdam and its port have grown together in a symbiotic relationship. In the 21st century, the Port is embarking on one of the most significant changes in its history, as it transitions to sustainable, low-energy operations. How can this change be experienced by the public, making sense of the complexity of the port? Opening today, the MVRDV-designed Portlantis is a visitor and exhibition centre for the Port of Rotterdam located at the port's western-most point. Comprising a stack of five rotated exhibition spaces, the building stands out from its surroundings with its crimson-red public route from the dunes to its rooftop, while offering spectacular views in all directions of the North Sea, the coastline, and the port.