Designed by MAD Architects, the FENIX Migration Museum is set to open in the Port of Rotterdam in 2025. Currently under construction, the museum aims to explore the global narrative of migration through art, architecture, photography and history. Housed in a 16,000-square-meter warehouse built in 1923, once part of the world’s largest warehouse, the building holds historical significance as a key storage and shipping center for Holland America Line. New construction photographs show the assembly of the metal propeller, called The Tornado, taking shape above the historic warehouse.
The project began in 2020 with the release of the first images of the project. In collaboration with Bureau Polderman, MAD Architects is transforming the historic warehouse, which played a key role in the migratory journeys of millions of people during the 19th and 20th centuries. The ground floor of the museum will house three key installations, each reflecting the theme of human migration.
“The Labyrinth,” a monumental work made from 2,000 donated suitcases, symbolizes the personal belongings of migrants. The photography exhibition “Migrant Family” will feature documentary-style images and portraits, capturing themes of love, loss, and the perilous nature of migrants’ journeys. In addition, the 2,275-square-meter flexible space will foster innovative curatorial approaches for future exhibitions.
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The Tornado, the museum’s main architectural element, already rises from the base of the building, forming an upward spiral and symbolizing the tumultuous journeys of migrants. This organic structure serves as both a visual centerpiece and an elevated observation deck, offering views of the Meuse River and the surrounding cityscape, including the iconic New York Hotel. This design brings together past narratives of migration, many of which are intrinsically linked to this former warehouse, and the current and future challenges of ongoing global migration.
The history of FENIX is the history of Rotterdam. And its history is the history of the world: of arrivals and departures, and of constant changes towards the future. In its new historic headquarters, FENIX will arouse a new and profound curiosity about the world we live in. — Anne Kremers, Director of FENIX
FENIX reimagines the museum experience by using art, architecture, photography and history to tell the universal story of migration in an ever-changing world. The museum will feature expansive gallery spaces across two floors, showcasing FENIX’s growing collection alongside works by emerging international artists. The collection already includes pieces by renowned artists such as Francis Alÿs, Sophie Calle, Shilpa Gupta, Steve McQueen and Bill Viola, each addressing migration through contemporary perspectives.
In related news, Ma Yansong-led MAD Architects is designing LOT 04 east of Tencent’s new headquarters in Shenzhen, which includes two biomorphic office towers, three interconnected structures, and a raindrop-shaped building. Additionally, the Hainan Science Museum, designed by Ma Yansong/MAD Architects, is progressing through its construction phases. Finally, Ma Yansong/MAD Architects has unveiled its design for the Cloud 9 Sports Center, a 6,000-square-meter sports complex in Shijiazhuang, China.
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