July 21, 2026
The internationally renowned architectural firm MVRDV won with its Rotterdam ROCKS! design. The project will become a new center focused on sustainability, research, and education in Rotterdam. MVRDV co-founder Winy Maas teaches at ARCHIP, and thanks to this connection, the themes of the winning project are also reflected in this year’s international ARCHIP Summer School, which will take place from July 20 to 31, 2026, in Prague.
Architecture as a living organism
The Rotterdam ROCKS! project represents one of the most ambitious visions for the future of sustainable architecture.
“The building is not viewed merely as an object in the city, but as an active part of the urban ecosystem a living organism that connects architecture, landscape, and nature. It is based on the principles of promoting biodiversity, water management, low-carbon construction, and the circular use of materials,” says Winy Maas, adding: “Our ambition is to create a building that can evolve alongside the city, respond to climate challenges, and become part of a greener Rotterdam of the future.”
