Plans for the new Centre for Dance Danshuis in Rotterdam have been revealed by the architecture firm MAD. The project is located on a historic site in the city’s dock area, adjacent to the Fenix museum of migration, which was also designed by MAD. The new facility is slated to open in 2030.
Transformation of a 1923 Warehouse
The design will transform a former warehouse that dates back to 1923. Situated on the south bank of the River Maas in central Rotterdam, the building covers 9,500 square metres and features art deco styling. It will become the largest centre for the production and development of dance in Europe under a single roof.
The facility will host fourteen state-of-the-art dance studios, an open podium, a gym, and an exhibition space. A café and a rooftop Salle des Fêtes will also be included. This large hall is designed for public programmes and offers sweeping views of the city’s historic harbour. A spectacular vertical foyer will link all floors with the Salle des Fêtes, while extensive outdoor spaces face the riverfront.
Building on the Netherlands’ Dance Heritage
Rotterdam-based Droom en Daad Foundation is developing the plans. The foundation is also responsible for other major cultural developments in the city, including the adjacent Fenix museum which opened in 2025. The new Danshuis is intended to serve as a meeting place for local communities and international professionals.
Read Also: Libeskind Named Architecture Laureate of Praemium Imperiale
Local officials view the project as a continuation of the Netherlands’ role as a global hub for dance. The country is home to institutions like Nederlands Dans Theater and Dutch National Ballet. The foundation’s director, Laura Dufour, stated that the centre aims to share the joy of dance and contribute to Rotterdam as a cultural city.
By integrating dance studios with public spaces, the design attempts to blur the line between professional rehearsal and community interaction. This approach prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that the physical architecture supports a culture where movement is visible and open to everyone.
Architectural Vision
Ma Yansong, founder of MAD, described the project as a dialogue with the surrounding district. He noted that movement becomes part of the character of the area. The studio has a history of designing large-scale cultural venues, including the Harbin Opera House and the Fenix museum in Rotterdam.
Danshuis will accommodate dancers of all ages and experience levels, providing facilities for both professional and amateur programmes. The project reflects the Netherlands’ broader reputation as a leader in contemporary and classical dance across Europe, supported by institutions such as Nederlands Dans Theater and Dutch National Ballet. The country’s lively dance scene is further energised by its internationally acclaimed DJs, who have helped shape electronic dance culture on a global scale.
Read Also: Beechworth Holiday Home Transformed in Multi-Year Renovation
Ma Yansong, founder and principal partner of MAD, emphasised that movement transcends architecture and becomes integral to the district’s identity. The proximity to the Fenix museum creates a continuous dialogue between the two cultural landmarks, reinforcing Rotterdam’s commitment to public engagement through the arts.
Artist impression images of the Danshuis have been provided by MAD, offering a first look at how the transformed warehouse will accommodate its ambitious programme. The design preserves key elements of the original 1923 structure while introducing contemporary interventions that meet modern performance and community needs.
The Droom en Daad Foundation, established in 2016, seeks to redefine Rotterdam for the 21st century by supporting new creative talent and developing institutions that reflect the city’s diversity, spirit, and history. Danshuis represents one of the foundation’s most significant undertakings, positioning the city as a truly great European cultural destination.