The ING Group Headquarters in Budapest serves as a notable example of Erick van Egeraat’s approach, juxtaposing uncompromising modernism with organic forms to create what he describes as Modern Baroque. Born in Amsterdam in 1956, this Dutch architect has maintained a practice that spans Europe and Russia, focusing on integrating contemporary design into historical urban environments.
Early Career and Mecanoo
Erick van Egeraat received his education at Maartenscollege in Groningen and the Delft University of Technology. Following a competition victory for youth housing at Kruisplein in Rotterdam, he co-founded the firm Mecanoo in the early 1980s alongside Henk Döll, Francine Houben, Roelf Steenhuis, and Chris de Weijer. During his tenure, the practice challenged norms of social housing and urban renewal through projects like the Faculty of Economics and Management in Utrecht and the library at Delft University of Technology.
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In 1995, van Egeraat established Erick van Egeraat Associated Architects, later restructured as (designed by) Erick van Egeraat. Operating from Rotterdam with additional offices in cities including Moscow, Budapest, and Prague, the firm pursued a philosophy of architectural continuity. This period saw the completion of the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork and the Mauritskade building in Amsterdam. He has authored several books, including 'Six Ideas about Architecture' and 'Life without Beauty,' in which he advocates for the essential role of aesthetics in building design.
International Projects and Recognition
His work extends across more than ten countries, with significant activity in Russia during the 2000s, including the Capital City development in Moscow and the Vershina Trade and Entertainment Center in Surgut. Other notable international contributions include the Incineration Line in Roskilde, Denmark, and the Leipzig University auditorium. In 2016, the Mayor of Rotterdam presented him with the decoration of Officer in the order of Oranje Nassau on behalf of the King of the Netherlands.
Fast facts
- Born: 1956, Amsterdam
- Citizenship: Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Education: Delft University of Technology
- Notable work: VTB Arena
- Firm: Erick van Egeraat associated architects
- Award: Dedalo Minosse Prize
- Decoration: Officer in the order of Oranje Nassau
Questions readers ask
Where is Erick van Egeraat based?
He is based in Rotterdam, with additional office locations in Moscow, Budapest, and Prague.
What is his design philosophy regarding historical settings?
He prioritizes continuity and memory rather than rupture, aiming to harmonize modern designs with historical environments.
Achievements
- Notable work: VTB Arena
- Dedalo Minosse Prize
- Trained at Delft University of Technology and Maartenscollege, Groningen
