Station Zuidplein

Rotterdam is a city with two shores, each with its own character and dynamics. While the north has developed into an urban showcase with international appeal in recent decades, the south is undergoing a strong growth phase. Hart van Zuid is creating a new central area where culture, urban life and 154 nationalities come together.

The renovated, monumental Zuidplein Station forms the new entrance here. Every day, thousands of travellers pass through the station on their way to work, school or cultural destinations such as Ahoy, the Ikazia Hospital, Zuidplein Shopping Centre, the Swimming Centre and Theater Zuidplein.

The task was clear and challenging: how do you transform an outdated post-war station into a future-proof, high-quality urban hub? A station that strengthens the heart of the neighbourhood and at the same time makes the dynamics of the metro line tangible. In addition to being a well-oiled transport machine, for the first time we have succeeded in turning an above-ground station in Zuid into a place to stay and meet.

The revamped concept for Zuidplein Station builds on the modernist ideas that Ir. C. Veerling used to design the original metro stations along the southern branch. The Rijnhaven, Maashaven and Zuidplein stations were designed to work together, with transparency, light and a clear, horizontal architectural style.

The characteristic angled roofs, which float above the stations, give the building an expressive appearance. They represent the experience of speed and dynamism of the metro line and form a recognisable silhouette in the urban landscape. In this modernist framework, the principle of “form follows function” is central: the form follows the functional logic of the station and supports the movements of passengers. The spatial layout, transparent façades and incidence of light ensure clarity, logical routing and an inviting, open structure.

By carefully embracing these principles and reinforcing them where possible, the original qualities of the station are restored and made future-proof. The architecture is functional, legible and full of character: a place where modernist simplicity and contemporary functionality come together once again.

In addition, a three-storey bicycle parking facility with 1,000 spaces has been added. This volume is designed as a natural extension of the main building, adding lightness and transparency to the ensemble and enhancing the legibility of the station without competing with it.

The transformation of Zuidplein Station was an intensive design process, carried out in close collaboration with the Municipality of Rotterdam, Heijmans, RET and MRDH. Various interests converged in a single shared ambition: a station that embodies the identity of Hart van Zuid and grows with the future. By acting as a mediator, and sometimes as a translator, we succeeded in bringing those interests together in a shared design.

The design combines historical value with the needs of a modern transport hub. By exposing the original spaciousness, such as the generous height, airiness and overview, space was created for a new structure that is clear, accessible and timeless. The hall will be equipped with contemporary facilities, new commercial units and an optimised layout that intuitively guides travellers through the building.

Additional requirements such as fire safety, acoustic comfort and social safety have been carefully integrated into the design without compromising the lightness and openness that are so characteristic of Zuidplein. By anchoring the station more firmly in the ground level, a natural connection has been created with the Gooilandsingel: a lively city boulevard where travellers can immediately step into urban life.

Zuidplein Station is a place of arrival. Physically and mentally. A pivotal point between neighbourhood and city, between movement and residence. The station offers space for encounters, wonder and the daily rhythm of thousands of Rotterdam residents.

With its restored modernist clarity and future-proof programme, the station forms a worthy entrance to Hart van Zuid and a new chapter in the development of Rotterdam. This is where the journey begins and ends, but above all: this is where the city begins.