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Conceptualised and designed by Piet Blom in 1970s, originally planted in Helmond, the iconic Kubuswoning (Cubic Houses) was constructed on top of a pedestrian bridge into an urban jungle of abstract trees in 1984, from an invitation from the city of Rotterdam.

The cubes tilt and rest on hexagon-shaped pole structures, each containing living areas sliced into three levels. I did not manage to enter the cubes, but I hear that the first level contains the living area, the middle level holds the bedroom and bathroom whilst the top level provides the extra space for the occasional guest.

I explored the city with the decorated writer, Chen Ko-Hua, during the spare hours we had before the rehearsals of Tears of Barren Hill. The Kubuswoning was a must-visit, my wife had said. The promenade level greeted us with warmth spilling off the roof. It’s hard not to wonder if this is how heaven would be like – gorgeous architecture, warmth, serenity robbed from our society eons ago. It’s a shame we have to ruin the beauty with our litter. I must’ve stepped over one coke can too many whilst exploring this urban jungle.

If you’re visiting Rotterdam, visiting Kubuswoning should be on your agenda. Aren’t you sick of wannabie condominums with cheesy-ass unpronounciable names already?

Address:
Oudenavenkade
Rotterdam, Netherlands
3011

Enjoy the pictures below.