The river took center stage during the fourth edition of the Day and Night of Architecture. From the World Port Center, we watched the sun rise behind the Erasmus Bridge. This was followed by a sunny breakfast talk between writer Dore van Duivenbode and architects Violette Schönberger and Marjolein van Eig in the Schiehaven.

Schönberger and Van Eig discussed the scent of the past and of space, about spatial anxiety, and how the city is a verb. They also read from their own work. The treats—including a butter sculpture and customized OMI bread—were provided by Studio CoPain.

On the other side of the river, city guide Erik van Broekhuizen took visitors on a tour along De Boompjes. Equipped with headphones and an interactive audio tour, participants explored the past, present, and future of this quay—from the iconic Maas bridges and sweeping views, to De Boompjes as a green boulevard with linden trees and willows, and finally to today’s busy roadway lined with large office buildings and new residential towers.