NIO is a new car company. It designs and develops smart, high-performance, electric vehicles but also wants to build communities. By opening NIO houses in big cities for example. There now is a NIO House in Rotterdam, at de Meent.
At the outpost, NIO wants to offer a pleasant, welcoming space for (new) users to express, share and experience memorable moments together. Everyone can immerse themselves in the world of NIO and experience the models live. But guests can also get inspired, work, hold meetings and meet others over a cappuccino in the NIO Café while the kids play in the Joycamp. There is also an Art Gallery where visitors can experience work by a different artist every 3 months. The first artist allowed to exhibit his work is Rotterdam-based artist Jelmer Konjo (1993). He specially produced a number of upcycled works, created with materials used in the construction of NIO House.
Local artists and companies
NIO House was designed by Rotterdam-based architecture firm MVRDV. The design of the venue is inspired by the rugged and bold character of the city of Rotterdam and the sophisticated aesthetic of the brand. Located between the restaurants and high-end shops of the Meent, the NIO House Rotterdam’s clever design with moving elements allows it to take full advantage of its location on a corner along the canal. The front facade on the street side acts as an eye-catcher that offers ample views of the brand’s models. The large sliding windows of the side façade can be opened. Allowing the NIO Café to extend outside on sunny days.
The terrazzo-like floor was made by The Good Floor. The local specialist uses plastic from the nearby Meuse River, thereby giving this waste product a second life. The raw, concrete columns and robust design details create a Rotterdam character that combines perfectly with the company’s pure and minimalist design.
The opening of the first branch in the Netherlands – located at De Meent 80-84 in Rotterdam – is another milestone for the global provider of smart electric cars. Since launching the brand late last year, NIO has introduced two models in the Netherlands. At the revolutionary swap stations, users can swap their NIO’s battery for a full one within minutes. Meanwhile, four battery swap stations are already open and several are under construction.
Photo: Ossip van Duivenbode
