Diederendirrix has won the architect selection for the new construction of pop venue Baroeg in Rotterdam. For 40 years, the music venue has played an idiosyncratic role in the city’s cultural sector. The programming mainly focuses on hard alternative music, with styles such as rock, metal, hardcore, punk, psychobilly, electro and industrial. In 2021, Baroeg has been elected Echt Rotterdams Erfgoed.

The enthusiasm with which underground styles have been brought together for decades and the special location in Rotterdam South make Baroeg incomparable to any other stage. Baroeg cherishes its social involvement, honesty and directness. All activities are focused on people, music and a lifelong bond with the subculture. According to connoisseurs and enthusiasts: “The best black metal place in Europe”.

According to the jury, diederendirrix hit the nail on the head with their design vision for the new building: “A place for cultural ceremonies: intense, lived through, rough, but also loving!” Both inside and out, the design is a primary experience that sharpens the senses and at the same time creates space for a collective experience. The interaction between the audience and between the audience and the band is what it’s all about in the new building.

The inner spaces around the hall were created by the qualities and forces of the environment. The beautiful building shape expressly interacts with the Spinoza Park. The pronounced ‘urban sculpture’ is also a habitat for flora and fauna.