Model Storage Depot open during Open Monument Days 2026
Come and explore the Nieuwe Instituut’s Open Model Storage Depot during Open Monument Days on 12 and 13 September. Located in the Van Nelle Design Factory site, one of the factory warehouses (Schiehallen) is now used to store around 700 architectural models from the collection, which are displayed in an open layout. This space is not usually open to the public.
12 September 2026 08:00 - 13 September 2026 15:00
Warehouses
The Schiehallen were built as Van Nelle Factory warehouses in 1942-43, based on a design by J. A. Brinkman and J. H. van den Broek. In 2005, the architectural firm Broekbakema installed a 460 m² climate-controlled storage unit here, adapting the space for use as a depot and workplace.
The main focus here is on extremely large models, but there are also very small ones, and models made of special or fragile materials, such as matchboxes, eggshells, paper and blue foam.
Practical information
Due to the models’ fragility and sensitivity to moisture and temperature fluctuations, we cannot allow too many visitors inside at once. Visitors will therefore need to book a time slot, and there are a few house rules.
- Coats and bags are not permitted inside. A limited number of lockers and a coat closet are available.
- Food and drink are also not permitted.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- The models must not be touched.
Unfortunately, the storage depot is not accessible for mobility scooters or electric wheelchairs.
Tickets
Tickets are available from 1 September via a link on this page.
Please note: only one ticket per person is available. If you’d like to come with someone, they need to purchase their own ticket for the same time slot.
Open Monumentendag Rotterdam
On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, Rotterdam’s historic buildings will open their doors to the public. View the full programme here.