MVRDV's 180-step stairway offers new views of Rotterdam's rooftops
MVRDV has installed a temporary 180-step staircase, 'The Stairs to Kriterion,' on the roof of the Groot Handelsgebouw in Rotterdam, commemorating 75 years of post-war reconstruction. The structure rises 29 meters and leads to a platform with a bar and cinema, reopening the iconic Kriterion from the 1960s for films, debates, and performances. Co-founder Winy Maas describes it as a symbolic step toward better use of the city's second layer, envisioning future escalators to connect rooftops. The scaffolding, assembled by Dutch engineer Steigers, aligns with the central station corners and is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm until June 12. A video captures reactions from early visitors.
Key facts
- The Stairs to Kriterion is a temporary 180-step staircase by MVRDV.
- It sits on the roof of the Groot Handelsgebouw in Rotterdam.
- The installation commemorates 75 years of post-war reconstruction.
- The platform is 29 meters above ground and includes a bar and cinema.
- The Kriterion cinema reopens for the occasion, hosting films, debates, and performances.
- Winy Maas says the staircase is a symbolic first step toward better use of the city's second layer.
- The scaffolding was assembled by Dutch engineer Steigers.
- The installation is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm until June 12.
Entities
Artists
- Winy Maas
Institutions
- MVRDV
- Groot Handelsgebouw
- Kriterion
- Steigers
Locations
- Rotterdam
- Netherlands