De Ruyter, Rotterdam

The Müllerpier is a wedge of land jutting into the River Maas near the Euromast tower. Standing at the border between the city centre and Rotterdam-West, it is largely defined by the surrounding harbour basins and by being hemmed in on three sides by water.

The master plan for the Müllerpier comprises some 600 apartments and ground-based housing units in 13 distinct housing blocks. The differing dimensions of the blocks drive home the contrast between the intimacy of the peninsula and the vast expanse of the water. Each building enjoys a great degree of autonomy as regards size, height and housing typology, an autonomy further consolidated by their architecture. Some are rotated strategically to engage their surroundings.

As much activity as possible is concentrated on the ground floors, including the option of studios and live-work units.