Fenix, the new museum of migration, invites wonder, connection, and a renewed perspective on the city.

Every detail of the design breathes innovation, craftsmanship, and a profound respect for history.

In May 2025, Fenix opened its doors. The museum is housed in the fully transformed Fenix Warehouse II, located in Katendrecht, Rotterdam. At the heart of the restoration is the striking observation tower known as the Tornado. Designed by MAD Architects, it rises like a shimmering beacon above the historic harbour structure. As co-architect of Fenix, Powered by EGM was responsible for the architectural realisation of the Tornado. With great care for the past and an eye on the future, the project fuses technology, heritage and architecture into a truly unique new urban place.

Building on History
The choice of location is no coincidence. Once known as the San Francisco Warehouse, Fenix II was the largest and most significant transhipment warehouse in Rotterdam. Along these same quaysides, millions of people either left Europe behind or started a new life here. The warehouse still exudes the dynamic urban history that continues to resonate today. Its restoration required deep respect for this layered past. Rotterdam-based firm Bureau Polderman developed the restoration plan, bringing the building back to its characteristic 1950s style. Structural challenges, such as sunken foundations and level differences, were solved ingeniously. Thanks to precise modelling and innovative methods—including cutting out building elements and using lightweight concrete floors—the old warehouse could be preserved and transformed for its new cultural and museum purpose.

“The Tornado is a metaphor for the journey of a migrant
Ma Yansong, Founder and Principal Architect, MAD Architects

A Meeting of Old and New
The design links past and present. Visually and structurally, the new Tornado hovers apart from the monumental building, with its mirrored stainless steel skin acting as a contemporary eye-catcher. The Tornado quite literally pierces through the roof—a three-dimensionally formed glass atrium canopy. Inside, the museum presents stories of migration: universal themes of farewell, belonging and identity are given space—both physically and symbolically—under a new roof. This creates room for reflection and dialogue at the crossroads of cultures and generations.

Inventive Craftsmanship
The realisation of the Tornado called for collaboration between international designers, engineers and local craftsmen. Every component was meticulously studied and designed in detail: from the spaceframe with thousands of unique steel parts to the seamless mirrored cladding that captures the daylight. The swirling staircases and glass platforms are refined and inviting, perfectly suited to the museum’s public function. Ultimately, technological innovations—such as automated expansion and contraction systems—ensure the Tornado’s durability and reliability.

“The first thing to say is that the gallery spaces are sensational. I seriously doubt any architect could have built from scratch anything better
Edwin Heathcote, Architecture Critic, Financial Times

A New Urban Perspective
At 30 metres tall and clad in a glistening skin, the Tornado marks the renewed Fenix Warehouse II as a landmark on the banks of the Maas. The building contributes to the vibrancy of Katendrecht and strengthens Rotterdam as a city that innovates while staying true to its soul. By combining cultural heritage, bold design and attention to people and environment, this project builds a bridge between history and the future.

“Fenix gives voice to the stories and experiences of migrants from all over the world. The story of Fenix is the story of Rotterdam, the world, and of you
Anne Kremers, Director of Fenix

A New Place for People
Fenix warmly welcomes everyone. The design is open and inviting—attuned to both visitors and staff. This is reflected in the generous public staircases, wide balustrades, anti-slip surfaces and broad escape routes that ensure comfort and safety. The new lobby, plaza and rooftop gardens encourage people to gather, connect and take in the view. Fenix offers not only a tribute to the past, but also a home for today’s stories.

Co-Architectural Role in Design Development
Since the preliminary design phase in 2018, EGM has been responsible for the architectural detailing of both the transformation and the structural redevelopment of the warehouse, as well as the technical elaboration of the Tornado and the new museum lobby. Additionally, we served as co-architect for part of the structural shell. EGM oversaw all phases—from preliminary through to final, technical and construction design, and the execution phase. All architectural work was modelled entirely in BIM, from which all design and working drawings were derived. As BIM manager, EGM also coordinated all partner models throughout the project.