Inaugurated in 2019 in the heart of the city, Forum Groningen is a landmark of contemporary architecture. Its geometric silhouette, slanted façades and spectacular atrium make it both an urban icon and a vibrant cultural hub, bringing together a library, cinemas, exhibitions and a rooftop with panoramic views over Groningen.
Galerie photos
Anneke Meulenaar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bold geometric architecture
Forum Groningen adopts the form of a polyhedron with non-vertical faces, some of which slope inward or outward. Its hexagonal base and top give the building a striking presence on the Nieuwe Markt, creating a dialogue with the historic skyline. Inside, a central atrium connects all levels through a system of exposed escalators, offering layered viewpoints and intuitive circulation.
Materiality & light
The façades play with oblique planes and large glazed openings that fill the atrium with natural daylight. The building’s appearance shifts with the hour and the weather: reflection, transparency and depth enhance the sculptural effect of the volume.
A hybrid and vibrant program
Designed as a common house for residents and visitors, Forum brings together a library, cinema halls, exhibition spaces, learning studios, cafés and work areas. The rooftop rises 45 metres above the city with a public terrace and an open-air cinema, offering 360° views over the Martini Tower and the rooftops of the old town.
Project origins and urban integration
Forum is part of the redevelopment of the eastern edge of the Grote Markt. The creation of the Nieuwe Markt opened a new public space, extending pedestrian flows and refreshing the urban fabric in the city centre.
Controversy, resilience… and recognition
Debates, a failed referendum, seismic adjustments and increased construction costs marked the project’s timeline (2011–2019). Upon opening, the building quickly established itself as a cultural landmark: record attendance, strong public adoption and major awards (Groninger Architectuurprijs 2020, Dutch Design Award – Habitat, BNA Best Building of the Year, and design distinctions for its visual identity).
Access & services
Forum Groningen is located a few minutes’ walk from the Grote Markt. A 1,500-space underground bicycle parking area is integrated beneath the building, and a car park with around 390 spaces is accessible below it. The site is well served by public transport in the city centre.
