OMA's Kunsthal in Rotterdam: Rem Koolhaas and the New Europe

The Kunsthal in Rotterdam, designed by Rem Koolhaas and OMA, is a key design in their portfolio. It is part of the Museumpark and houses three large exhibition halls, two smaller galleries, an auditorium, and a restaurant. Tibor Pataky, architect and architectural historian, celebrates the building in this book, explaining its history, programmatic background, and cultural references. Ten captivating photo series highlight the structure's outstanding qualities and its embedding in the park. New plans illustrate the shear points of OMA's design. The volume is a tribute to one of the most significant works of post-WWII architecture in Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2023
Publisher: Park Books

The Kunsthal in Rotterdam, a masterpiece of design, was inaugurated in 1992 as a pivotal addition to the portfolio of Rem Koolhaas and OMA, the renowned firm Koolhaas co-founded in 1975. Nestled within the Museumpark, a park meticulously designed by OMA, the Kunsthal stands as a testament to the collaborative brilliance of these visionary architects. This architectural gem is also home to the Nederlands Architectuurinstituut NAi, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and the Museum of Natural History.

The Kunsthal's exhibition space is a testament to its grandeur, comprising three expansive exhibition halls and two smaller galleries. In addition to its artistic offerings, the building houses an auditorium and a restaurant, further enhancing its appeal as a cultural hub.

Architect and architectural historian Tibor Pataky has penned an inspiring book that delves into the history, programmatic background, and cultural references of this remarkable design. Pataky explores how the Kunsthal has undergone multiple adaptations over the years, placing it within the context of OMA's work during the 1980s and the intellectual environment of Deconstructivism. Ten captivating photo series showcase the Kunsthal's exceptional qualities and its seamless integration within the park. Furthermore, new plans, specifically created for this book, provide a detailed insight into the shear points of OMA's design, further enhancing our understanding and appreciation of this architectural masterpiece.

This volume serves as a magnificent tribute to one of the most significant works of post-WWII architecture in Europe. The Kunsthal in Rotterdam stands as a shining example of the power of design, collaboration, and cultural significance, captivating audiences worldwide with its breathtaking beauty and innovative spirit.

Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783038603214