a new cultural destination sparking
massive climate action
These are the five finalist designs for the Shift Landmark that is set to open in 2031 in Rotterdam. Click below to dive into the proposals in detail
A Living Landmark
Ecosistema Urbano
Urban
Reef
Heatherwick Studio
The House of Shift
Mecanoo
Rotterdam Rocks
MVRDV
Climate Section
Office for Political Innovation
... a place full of wonder, hope and positivity
The Shift Landmark is a bold €240 million purpose-driven destination. A physical and emotional experience that looks to ignite hearts and minds of millions, with up to a million visitors each year. Its goal is to inspire visitors to protect the future of life on our planet.
The Landmark planned in Waterkant, a new waterfront district in the south of Rotterdam that aims to become one of Europe’s most forward-looking urban neighbourhoods.
... an enabler for change
Throughout history, humans have created landmarks — from pyramids to cathedrals to skyscrapers — to unite communities, showcase progress, and spark inspiration. Shift, a steward-owned social enterprise working to enable large-scale societal change, is advancing that tradition with a new kind of landmark for the 21st century, creating a place that makes a better, more sustainable way of living tangible, desirable, and achievable.
... backed by top experts
The Shift International Architecture Competition launched in January 2025 and is overseen by New York based agency DVDL. Around 1,500 architects in 50 countries downloaded the brief, and 80 teams submitted proposals.
Backed by local strategic partners and impact financiers, Shift has invited eleven top experts from the fields of architecture, sustainability, biodiversity, culture, and impact investment.