Maastoren

Maastoren: a modern icon of Kop van Zuid

Maastoren is one of Rotterdam’s most recognisable skyscrapers and one of the major architectural landmarks of Kop van Zuid.

With a height of approximately 165 metres, the tower dominated the city’s skyline for many years and, after its completion, became the tallest building in the Netherlands.

It was designed by Dam & Partners Architecten and completed in 2010, as part of the transformation of this former port area into one of Rotterdam’s main business and residential districts.

A tower that changes colour

One of the most distinctive features of Maastoren is the treatment of its façade.

The dark tones of the lower section gradually become lighter towards the top, eventually changing to silvery shades on the upper levels. This creates a visual effect that varies depending on the light and weather conditions.

This transition makes the tower appear lighter as it rises and emphasises its vertical presence beside the river.

Architecture beside the Nieuwe Maas

Maastoren occupies a prominent position beside the Nieuwe Maas, close to the intersection of Wilhelminakade and Laan op Zuid.

Its proximity to the water also influenced some of the technical aspects of the project. The building incorporates special measures to protect it against possible impacts from vessels and is closely connected to the port and river infrastructure of this part of the city.

Its location makes it an important part of the group of skyscrapers that now defines the skyline of Kop van Zuid.

The tallest building in the Netherlands for a decade

Maastoren came into use in 2010 and for many years was recognised as the tallest building in the Netherlands, with an official height of approximately 164.75 metres.

This title reinforced its importance within Dutch high-rise architecture and strengthened Rotterdam’s position as the country’s leading city for skyscraper construction.

With the arrival of taller towers such as De Zalmhaven, Maastoren lost the top position, but it remains one of the most important elements of Rotterdam’s modern skyline.

Maastoren: practical information

Other buildings in Rotterdam

Belvedere | Calypso | Centraal Station | Cooltoren | De Rotterdam | De Zalmhaven | Delftse Poort | Depot | Euromast | Markthal | Millennium Tower | WTC