© KLM Aerocarto
The former Rijks Automobiel Centrale garage in Rotterdam was designed by Hugh Maaskant’s office between 1959 and 1962. The building was created to accommodate the maintenance and parking of more than 400 government vehicles.
Maaskant integrated the movement of vehicles directly into the architecture. An access ramp runs along the façade and connects the different floors, allowing vehicles to circulate through the building. This approach is characteristic of Maaskant’s interest in making logistics and movement visible architectural elements.
The building has a robust concrete structure with large spans, allowing the interior to accommodate changing requirements. Its horizontal façade composition reinforces the sense of movement and repetition.
The original programme was highly specialised, but the building’s generous structure made it suitable for reuse. After the RAC left the building, it was transformed into the Rotterdam City Archives.
The conversion demonstrates the adaptability of post-war architecture. Instead of replacing the structure, the existing building was reused and equipped with new sustainable systems, including solar panels, rainwater collection and underground thermal energy storage.
Today the former garage houses the Rotterdam City Archives and combines an important civic function with the robust architectural character of Maaskant’s original design.
