ARCAM is Amsterdam’s architecture centre at Prins Hendrikkade 600, across the water from the Maritime Museum. Its compact exhibitions explore the city’s buildings and the social and economic forces behind urban design. Look for physical models of Amsterdam buildings and interactive activities that put architectural ideas into context. The sculptural, glass-fronted pavilion is also worth a look in its own right, with views towards the harbour, old Amsterdam, NEMO and the Maritime Museum.
A pavilion by the harbour
ARCAM is housed in a compact building designed by René Van Zuuk. Completed in 2003, the pavilion has a trapezium-shaped form, coated aluminium cladding and broad expanses of glass. Its location on Prins Hendrikkade puts it across the water from the Maritime Museum, with views towards the harbour and nearby city landmarks.
The building itself is part of the visit: its unusual shape and materials give you a chance to look closely at a contemporary piece of Amsterdam architecture before exploring the exhibitions.
Exhibitions and city models
The centre’s exhibitions consider Amsterdam’s architecture alongside its surroundings and social context. Displays cover local architectural and urban-planning activity, while temporary exhibitions bring changing subjects into focus. Physical models represent buildings across the city, and interactive games offer another way to engage with architectural ideas.
ARCAM also provides information about architecture in Amsterdam, including maps and routes. Guided tours are available; ask the centre about current options if you want to explore the city’s buildings with additional context. The small shop stocks architecture maps, magazines and books.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is ARCAM Architecture Centre Amsterdam?
It is at Prins Hendrikkade 600, across the water from the Maritime Museum.
What can you see at ARCAM?
The centre has exhibitions about architecture and urban design, physical models of Amsterdam buildings, and interactive activities.
Does ARCAM offer guided tours?
Yes. Guided tours are available; check with the centre for current options.
When is ARCAM open?
It is closed on Mondays and open from 1 to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday.
