Ciro
Timmers

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

Rotterdam, Netherlands is where we live and work.

Where is your studio located & how does it look?

We are currently between the studios, but our previous location was Boomgaardsstraat 298 in Rotterdam.

Are there any projects that are personally important to you – whether recently completed or currently in progress?

The Saga Lounge Chair holds special significance for me. I designed it after spending three months in the hospital due to acute heart failure. At the time, I wasn’t sure if I would make it, and the experience changed how I see life.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

Yes, we have three favorite places in Rotterdam to hang out. One is Zwaanhalskwartier, especially on Saturdays when the Oogstmarkt takes place. There are some great little breakfast restaurants and shops—all with unique, authentic stories behind them. It’s a lovely place to sit in the sun. The same goes for the MaHo Quarter, also known as the Pannekoekstraat area, with its creative vibe and cozy atmosphere. We also really enjoy the Hoogstraat lately, especially for grabbing good coffee (and matcha). All of these spots are filled with small, independent businesses—giving you an authentic, local feel in the middle of a big city.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

If I had to name an urgent public issue in Rotterdam, it would definitely be the housing shortage. Since we moved here 15 years ago for our studies, the situation has drastically changed. Initially, few people wanted to live in Rotterdam, but now, the city is booming. So many people are moving here, and it’s truly becoming a rising city with breathtaking modern architecture.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?

I believe that in the past 5 years, Rotterdam has really grown into a city of architecture and creativity, gaining a lot of appreciation from outside. There has been an enormous amount of urban planning, construction, and development. The city offers many beautiful views with skylines, something that’s quite rare in the Netherlands. What’s really lacking, however, is affordable housing.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

In the Zwaanhalskwartier, you’ll find a lot of arts and crafts, sustainable products, and food. There’s also a lot happening in the M4H area, around Keileweg, when it comes to arts and crafts.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

Whenever we visit other places, larger cities like Berlin, Brussels, or Paris, we really notice how Rotterdam feels like a smaller, more manageable city. Yet, it still has the vibe and allure of a much larger city. It gives a nice and safe feeling.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

For majestic food, Diepnoord or Lux Rotterdam are excellent choices. Restaurant OX, located in the basement beneath the creative building of Schieblock, offers a unique experience. For a great vegetarian experience, try Rotonde.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

The first three places I mentioned are home to a variety of small businesses, which are not franchises like you typically find in the main streets of large cities. Small businesses often offer products that can only be found there.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

It would be Instagram, WhatsApp, and the weather for me. But if I had to mention something travel related in Rotterdam, check Uitagenda Rotterdam.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

So, the current ‘magazine’ would be Instagram. That’s where you keep yourself up to date, as long as you avoid following all sorts of nonsense accounts, which I try not to do. Additionally, in Rotterdam, Open Rotterdam is a up to date and modern YouTube channel.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?

I would focus on polarization and the housing shortage. Rotterdam is home to many cultures, but I often see a big divide where it feels like it’s one or the other. How can we bring these together for a better city, creating even more opportunities for everyone, because we all benefit from each other.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?

I would go for Rio de Janeiro, but I’ve built a strong bond with my friends and family, so that would hold me back. Ideally, I’d try to eventually buy a little house somewhere by the sea, near an airport in Portugal or Spain, close to a big city. Then spend all school holidays there with my family and possibly extended family.