Climb every mountain

Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) Rotterdam offers vibrant and flexible workspaces for startup companies. In collaboration with Kraaijvanger Architects, Silo created an inspiring visual narrative to encourage innovation.

Client

CIC Rotterdam

Partners

Architect: Kraaijvanger Architects

Radically improve the startup community

The Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) aims to radically improve the Dutch startup community’s position. The company moved into the Groot Handelsgebouw in Rotterdam in 2016. Accommodating over 200 startups, it is one of the most vibrant locations in the Central Business District. CIC distinguishes itself from many other co-working concepts with a unique approach and atmosphere.

Innovation, innovation, innovation

CIC offers startups everything they need to focus on developing their business. The diversity of spaces and high-quality facilities allow for a broad range of activities: meetings, solitary work, events, brainstorming, and relaxing. The Venture Café is the favourite hangout for the innovation community. Creative interventions in the interior establish stunning places in the working environment and enhance the wayfinding.

Ma, negative space

The starting point for the design is the Japanese term ‘Ma’. This indicates the space between two elements – the interval and the pause. An intensification of the visual experience creates a simultaneous awareness of form and the absence of structure. The principle of ‘Ma’ is reflected in the use of colour, light, texture, patterns, identity, and plants.

Mountains of Excellence

Based on the interior concept, Silo created ‘Mountains of Excellence’. The challenge of climbing each continent’s highest mountain is a stimulus to go above and beyond yourself. Based on 3D modelling and cartographic data, the subtle depth effect allows you to simultaneously see the mountain, summit and ascent.