Brenda

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Brenda

Brenda Kamphuis (51) is an architectural historian by origin, as well as being the founder of De Rotterdam Tours, so neither the new nor the old architectural icons of the city hold any secrets for her.

Unpretentious hospitality: 'Rotterdam is going all out, but without taking itself too seriously. That is precisely why the city becomes more attractive all the time'.

'Everything has been devised': Brenda feels that anyone walking across the city that realises this is bound to appreciate the built-up areas even more.

Greatest pride: 'The best thing I have ever done is to make sure that my children are true Rotterdammers... You can quote me on that one!'

Question 1 of 3

What do I really need to know about the icons of Rotterdam?

What many people don't know is that building in Rotterdam also often involves careful thinking about the public space; the Markthal is a striking example of this approach. This site has a very pleasant ambience because the square on which the building is situated is the location for what is almost the largest market in the Netherlands (Binnenrotte Markt). Another factor is that because all deliveries and waste disposal take place underground, you never see any of the trucks which replenish stocks in the Markthal, so the site is not disfigured by a utilitarian rear aspect.

Intelligent solutions for the supply and discharge of water and electricity have also been devised for floating icons such as the Floating Office, Wikkelboats and Nassau lofts. These facilities can also function autonomously thanks to solar panels, as well as being able to cope with rising water levels thanks to special bridges.

Are there any other sources of inspiration if I want to establish how a city such as Rotterdam addresses sustainable building?

Brenda's favorite locations in Rotterdam