The Kolsingel complex continues Rem Koolhaas's series of experiments with simple geometric shapes: in this case, we are talking about a cube with a side of 85 m, which should define the face of the new development of the center of Rotterdam. Now the area is dominated by towers that do not form a single landscape and carry significant functional limitations. Kolsingel, on the other hand, will include, first of all, a new public space - in the form of a shopping center on the five lower floors, linking together four central streets in the city, as well as - in the future - a nearby metro station. Exhibition halls, cafes and media centers will occupy the upper floors of the building, from where visitors can admire the views of all of Rotterdam. To attract citizens to this area, Koolhaas plans to install huge escalators in the complex, leading directly to cultural and leisure facilities - past offices and apartments, which will occupy most of the upper tiers of the building.
In the center of the "cube" a huge cavity is planned - an inner courtyard, which also plays the role of a light well. It will be surrounded by buildings that now stand on the site of the complex and will be included in its composition in the future, including the ABN AMRO bank building, the first new structure to appear in the center of destroyed Rotterdam after the Second World War; it will also decorate the entrance to the Koolhaas building from Kolsingel Street.
