06/2024
Rotterdam Scrapbook is a publication designed as a guide and reflection tool for newcomers in Rotterdam. It invites new students and expats to get to know the city not only through its places, but through the emotions these places evoke.
The book is divided into several chapters, each dedicated to a different district of Rotterdam. Every chapter includes background information, an outline of the area, and a series of open-ended questions that encourage the reader to reflect on how the district feels, rather than focusing on practical details such as cafés or shops. This approach allows users to discover the city in a more personal and intuitive way, helping them to build a sense of belonging.
Throughout the publication, users are prompted to reflect on their emotional connection with the city. At the beginning and end, there are reflection pages where they can describe how they feel about Rotterdam before and after their exploration. Each chapter ends with four open questions and a journaling page for notes, ideas, or impressions.
A unique visual element is the emotion diagram, a cross-shaped diagram with two intersecting axes that allow readers to position their feelings about each district. The design of the publication is kept neutral and open, allowing each reader to project their own experience onto it. The only use of color is the green sleeve surrounding the book, symbolizing Rotterdam and featuring photographs of each district.
Archival materials from Stadsarchief Rotterdam were used to create the district outlines and contextual visuals, grounding the project in the city’s visual history while leaving space for personal interpretation.
