A journey through time by Kossmann.dejong

The project entitled “The Time Stairs”, designed by Kossmann.dejong in MVRDV's multi award-winning Markthal gives visitors a chance to take a journey back in time thanks to the archaeological artefacts found during building excavations.



Archaeology and shopping? It's a bit of an unlikely duo, but in Rotterdam it is reality and it's happening in one of the most iconic buildings in recent times - Markthal During excavations for the foundations and the underground carpark of this geometrically unusual complex, where a one-of-a-kind combination brings together an indoor market, homes, shops and restaurants, many archaeological artefacts were found. 




So a visit to Markthal turns into a journey back in time: the climb up from the underground carpark gives you a spatial experience that everyone can enjoy, to discover some of the local history in what is definitely a contemporary location. 





So a visit to Markthal turns into a journey back in time: the climb up from the underground carpark gives you a spatial experience that everyone can enjoy, to discover some of the local history in what is definitely a contemporary location. 



The Time Stairs project by Kossmann.dejong has won the “Prize for Dutch Public Archaeology” awarded by the Foundation for Archaeology and Audience precisely because it is accessible to all and because it promotes archaeology with a wider public. Recognition by the public that voted for this work, proof positive of the excellent dissemination by Kossmann.dejong.

Christiane Bürkleim

design exhibition: Kossmann.dejong
design logo: Robin Stam
project management: Kossmann.dejong
content exhibition: BOOR
realisation: Kloosterboer Decor
lighting: Kloosterboer Decor, Studio Rublek
film and animations: Tungsten Studio, Carolien Bijvoet
initiative: Provast and City Council Rotterdam
photos: Bas Czerwinski
architect Markthal: MVRDV

Awards
Winner Dutch Public Archaeology Prize 2015