After seeing a photo of Rotterdam’s cubic houses (Kijk-Kubus) in the new travel guide called Here’s Holland, I decided to visit. Wow! Only the Dutch could come up with something that zany! And people actually live in these houses!

One of the models is open to the public, so if you’re in Rotterdam – home to the world’s largest and busiest harbor – take a look inside. The living space is very well utilized, but a tad claustrophobic, in my opinion. Decide for yourself.

In case you don’t know, the Dutch are famous for all kinds of avant-garde design – architectural and product, as well as fashion, e.g. Viktor & Rolf. Apparently, because Rotterdam was devastated in the war, this city was a prime market for Dutch architects to show their stuff. Also check out Blaak Station, which looks as much like a flying saucer as it does a Metro station. Another impressive example of modern architecture is Rotterdam’s Public Library (Bibliotheek) – all near the old harbor (Oude Haven). And don’t miss the Erasmus Bridge, a marvel in itself.

Great architectural photo ‘opps’, so be sure to have your camera handy!