Nieuwe Instituut

Nieuwe Instituut is the Netherlands’ museum for architecture, design and digital culture, at Museumpark 25 in Rotterdam. Its changing exhibitions range from urban planning and sustainable living to digital technology and interior design, spread across several floors. The building, designed by Jo Coenen, is part of the visit, and the museum also brings together a library, archives and research spaces. Allow time to follow the exhibitions at your own pace; a museum ticket also includes a visit to nearby Huis Sonneveld. The museum is next to other Museumpark attractions.

A museum for design and digital culture

Nieuwe Instituut brings architecture, design and digital culture together in a museum, research centre and archive. Its exhibitions examine how people shape the designed world, from buildings and urban planning to graphic design, fashion, games and digital media. The subjects change, so the galleries can present a different mix of ideas on a return visit.

The institute also preserves and makes accessible archives and collections connected to Dutch architects and urban planners. A library and study spaces add a research dimension to the exhibition galleries. Its programme includes exhibitions and public activities such as debates and workshops.

The building and its galleries

The building at Museumpark 25 was designed by Rotterdam architect Jo Coenen and opened in 1993. Its glass and metal construction and geometric forms provide a contemporary setting for the displays. Inside, exhibitions occupy multiple floors and can take distinct approaches to their subjects, from political questions to energy and sustainable living.

The exhibits may include interactive presentations as well as architectural drawings, models and smaller displays. The range makes it useful to check what is showing before you go, especially if you have a particular interest in architecture or design. The museum’s exhibitions are temporary, and the programme changes over time.