© KLM Aerocarto
The Poortgebouw Progress, also known as De Nieuwe Maaskant, was designed by Hugh Maaskant between 1956 and 1961 for the stevedoring company Progress at Rotterdam’s Schiehaven.
The building was conceived as the gateway between the public road and the company’s private harbour grounds. Its ground floor was therefore deliberately kept open, allowing vehicles and workers to pass through the building into the port complex.
Above this open base, the main volume appears to float. Broad white horizontal bands define the two upper floors, creating a strong contrast with the transparent ground level.
The building originally contained a large canteen for approximately 300 employees, changing rooms, washing facilities and offices. A service residence was also incorporated into the upper level.
The architecture demonstrates Maaskant’s ability to transform a highly functional programme into an expressive composition. Reinforced concrete provides the structural framework, while glass and glazed bricks bring lightness and transparency to the façade.
The building was later converted into offices and has been adapted for contemporary use while retaining its distinctive architectural character.
Poortgebouw Progress is an excellent example of Maaskant’s harbour architecture and his fascination with large gestures, modern materials and the visual expression of movement and infrastructure.
© Stadsarchief Rotterdam
