On the site of the old Charlois swimming pool is the Kunstenpand, designed by De Zwarte Hond. This new arts building houses the Theater Zuidplein and the library. The contours of the Annie M.G. Schmidtplein are now visible, and the first phase of the radical transformation of the outdoor space of the Hart van Zuid area has begun. The square is a place to linger and meet. With the library, theatre and opposite swimming pool, city shop and restaurants with outdoor terraces, the square is sure to become the vibrant centre of Rotterdam South.

As the project takes the shape, the first contours of the future outdoor space on the south side are now visible. The blended pavement in variegated blocks of colour invites you to linger and connect to the various buildings. This is the first step towards a car-free city boulevard. In the future, the Annie M.G. Smidtplein will logically connect the Kunstenpand with the metro station, Ahoy, RACC via the pedestrian area on the Gooilandsingel and the Ahoyplein. Here, another green impulse will be realized in the outdoor area, and we also plan to install the first rainwater fountain.

Karres en Brands has been involved in the area development of Hart van Zuid since 2013, when we won the PPS tender. As a member of the Q-team, our work includes managing the area development and designing the public space.