World Trade Center

WTC Rotterdam: From Historic Exchange To Modern Icon

The World Trade Center Rotterdam, located on the iconic Coolsingel Avenue, is one of the most representative examples of modern architecture in the Netherlands.

Its story begins with the Beursgebouw, designed by architect J.F. Staal in the Nieuwe Bouwen (New Building) style, between 1936 and 1940.br>
This building was constructed to replace the historic Koopmansbeurs of 1597, considered the oldest stock exchange in the Netherlands.br>

The evolution of the Beursgebouw

A visionary project for a modern city

In 1928, J.F. Staal won the competition to design the new stock exchange building in Rotterdam. Construction began in 1933 and was completed just before the bombing of Rotterdam on May 14, 1940.

Despite receiving seven direct hits during the bombing, the building was quickly restored and reopened in 1941. Since then, it has served as a venue for fairs, exhibitions, and shops.

Main entrance to Beurs-World Trade Center Rotterdam

Post-War transformations

After World War II, Rotterdam experienced rapid growth, which led to a high demand for office space. In response, the Beursgebouw was extended with two additional floors, and in the 1960s, more levels were added to the side wings.

During this period, A. Staal, the son of the original architect, led the modernisation of the commercial façades, preserving the architectural spirit of the building.

Rob van Erk’s design

In 1984, an ambitious extension project began: the construction of a sea-green oval-shaped glass tower, now known as the World Trade Center Rotterdam.

The design was created by architect Rob van Erk, then associated with the firm Groosman & Partners. The tower stands 93 meters tall and was officially inaugurated in 1987 by Queen Beatrix, who gave the entire complex the name Beurs-World Trade Center.

Iconic spaces of the WTC Rotterdam

The building blends monumental features with modern functionality:

Main Exchange Hall: Measuring 90 by 60 meters, this is a spacious and versatile area.
Monumental Entrance: Located on the corner of Coolsingel and Beursplein, featuring a large granite staircase supported by six concrete columns.
Chamber of Commerce Hall: Positioned above the main hall, with a large window overlooking Coolsingel.
Belfry and sculpture of G.K. van Hogendorp: Located on the main staircase, adding a historical touch to the architectural journey.

Current renovation of WTC Rotterdam

Currently, the World Trade Center Rotterdam is undergoing a significant renovation. Part of the building is being adapted to host a new hotel from the Postillion Hotels chain, with 168 rooms spread across the second, third, and fourth floors of the original structure.

This transformation aims to preserve the historical essence of the WTC while adapting it to meet the contemporary needs of the city.

Discover other icons of Rotterdam’s architecture