Experience an industrial icon: Katoenhuis for the first time joins Open Monumentendag with an exciting program
- Katažyna Jankovska
- Sep 8
- 1 min read
From hundred-kilo bales of cotton, underground raves, and conveyor belts of citrus fruit to a hub for immersive culture and technology, Katoenhuis carries many stories.
This year, for the first time, Katoenhuis will open its doors to the public during Open Monumentendag 2025, under the national theme Gebouw(d) om te blijven – Built to Last.
Since recently, not much has been known about this building, except that it was a post–war warehouse with a distinctive concrete and brick facade. Research done by Concrete Culture has revealed its remarkable history. It all began with Jan Dirk van Bennekum, a businessman active in shipping services. What followed is an amazing story of 75 years of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.
Built in 1951 as a post-war cotton warehouse, then known as Katoenloods Van Bennekum’s Havenbedrijf, the building contributed to Rotterdam’s post-war revival and later played a key role in the transformation of the M4H area into the world’s largest fruit port, functioning as a cold storage for tropical fruits.
Designed by architects Vermeer & Van Herwaarden, Katoenhuis combines prefabricated concrete with traditional brickwork in an innovative design that has been officially recognised as Beeldbepalend (iconic architecture).
Today, functioning as a space for immersive culture and technology, Katoenhuis invites heritage and architecture enthusiasts to explore a full program on September 13 and 14. Visitors can join guided tours, view the exhibition, and take part in special events.
Download press pack below: