The iconic bus shelter, also known as abri, is Gerrit Rietveld’s only work in Eindhoven and dates from 1962. It was originally designed on behalf of the municipality as a platform to display municipal messages, similar to an advertising column.
The design includes a mosaic of a map of the city, with the red dots marking the highlights of art and science at the time, including the TUE, the Stadsschouwburg, the Van Abbemuseum, the Evoluon, the central station and the former headquarters of Philips Nederland. Unfortunately, Rietveld was not able to complete the project, as he died at the same time that the city council approved the placement of three such structures, of which only one was realized.
Gerrit Rietveld, a prominent Dutch artist and architect, is recognized as a pioneer of the De Stijl movement. His iconic designs, such as the Red and Blue Chair and the Schröder House, reflect his vision of functionality, geometric shapes and the use of primary colours. Rietveld’s work is a testament to his pursuit of simplicity and harmony, transcending traditional design. His influential legacy continues to inspire modern architecture and design, and his works are exhibited and appreciated worldwide as masterpieces of modernism.
This Abri is included in the Dutch Design Tour Eindhoven. You can do this on a normal bike or on an urban E-Fatbike.
