CELEST becomes the highlight of Zalmhaven

Celest, inspired by the story The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall (1835) by world-famous American writer Edgar Allan Poe, will be the name of the restaurant and cocktail bar on the 57th floor of the Zalmhaven. At almost 200 metres high, Celest offers a culinary experience with breathtaking views of Rotterdam.

Operator Magnicity, a world leader in high-altitude urban tourism and also known for the Euromast, among other things, is not yet revealing the entire design of the experience or the menu, but it is lifting a tip of the veil. By the end of 2024, visitors to Celest will be immersed in an extraordinary and unparalleled experience at 190 metres above Rotterdam. In doing so, Celest will offer the highest culinary experience in the Benelux.

Trip to the moon

At Celest, visitors will soon be able to enjoy not only high-end culinary dishes, outstanding service and stunning 360-degree views of Rotterdam. The experience at this casual-chic and lively spot will be an immersive journey that already starts on the ground floor, as soon as visitors step into the lift and, like Pfaall, take the journey to the moon.

Once they reach the 57th floor, visitors will discover an enchanted atmosphere in the form of a lunar landscape. One floor higher, at 190 metres where the restaurant area will be, the play of light between the sun and the earth is woven into the design. The interior gradually changes from the cool northern lights to the warm glow of a setting sun. It is the world of the fictional Rotterdam man Hans Pfaall, but in a modern setting, designed by Doepel Strijkers Architects. Das Buro is developing Celest's brand positioning and identity.

Pride and love

The new concept at De Zalmhaven falls under Magnicity. This gives something back to the region, increases bonding and offers benefits in cooperation.

''As a born and bred Rotterdammer, I wanted to involve as many local parties in this project as possible,'' says Dennis Vermeulen, general manager of the concept. ''The pride and love we feel for our city and the enthusiasm with which we approach this project in our own backyard is something you also want to see in the partners. Besides, there is so much knowledge, experience, creativity and quality to be found in the Maasstad that there is no need to appoint parties from outside. Our partners know the city, people, culture and history of Rotterdam and translate this perfectly into interior design and branding. Moreover, because our partners' offices are within walking distance of De Zalmhaven, you can drop in on location yourself or at each other's premises at any time.''

Doepel Strijkers comments: ''It is an honour to work on this extraordinary project, in the most exalted place in the heart of Rotterdam.'' Das Buro'continues: ''Fantastic to get to work for this icon. As a Rotterdam-based agency, it's great to contribute to the development of this project with local roots and international appeal.''

Image: Fernando Guerra