Willem Burger Kwartier from de Doelen is getting a thorough upgrade
This summer, de Doelen will begin an extensive renovation of the Willem Burger Kwartier. The beloved conference wing, completed in 2000 as the largest expansion since de Doelen's construction in 1966, will undergo a thorough overhaul. Work will take place in July and August, a period during which no events are scheduled due to municipal maintenance.
The Willem Burger Kwartier —named after shipwright Willem Burger, founder of the Volkskracht Foundation—has become a key hub in de Doelen's operations. Volkskracht played a crucial role in the complex's completion in 2000 with a very generous contribution, and now, 25 years later, is once again making the upgrade possible with generous support. De Doelen is therefore extremely grateful to Volkskracht for its continued involvement in the development of the building and the city.
Dozens of conferences, cultural gatherings, and educational events are held annually in the Willem Burger kwartier, attracting approximately twenty thousand visitors. This makes the quarter not only a major business hub but also a place where culture, education, and socializing converge.
The upgrade focuses on sustainability, comfort, and future-proofing. Among other things, new flooring will be installed, chairs will be maintained and replaced, the stage will be refurbished, and the technology in the breakout rooms will be updated. These renovations are part of de Doelen's broader ambition to make the building more accessible, welcoming, and visually appealing to a diverse audience.
With this renovation, de Doelen aims to continue to play a leading role in the conference sector and as a cultural meeting place in the heart of Rotterdam.
“International conference organizers are increasingly discerning in their choice of venues. With this upgrade, we ensure that the Willem Burger Quarter continues to meet the highest standards in terms of comfort, technology, and appearance. This will allow us to remain an attractive and competitive destination in the international conference market.” – Janneke Staarink, General Manager de Doelen
