Your visit

SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT takes place from 18 September through 29 November 2026 and brings together an exhibition, tours and talks at the Piekfabriek, located on the Hunter Douglas site in Rotterdam. The biennale explores how design can contribute to new systems that support society, from energy to the economy, care and infrastructure.

Ticket prices SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT

Regular: €12.50
Ages 18 to 30: €7.50
Up to and including age 17: Free
Symposium and exhibition: €27,50

Free admission on every Sunday.

Your ticket shows a start time. You have 30 minutes from that moment to enter. After that, your visit to IABR can begin.

Upon presentation of your ticket, you also get a 10% discount on a pizza and a drink at Skateland!

Do you have a question about a ticket? Send an email to tickets@iabr.nl.

Opening hours SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11:00–17:00
Thursday: 11:00–17:00
Friday: 11:00–17:00
Saturday: 11:00–17:00
Sunday: 11:00–17:00

SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT. Image: Jacqueline Fuijkschot

Exhibition SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT 

SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT is for anyone curious about the world around them. Through familiar examples, stories and design projects, the Biennale explores how the systems that shape the way we live, build and care for one another influence our daily lives. No prior knowledge of architecture or design is required. The exhibition invites visitors to discover new perspectives and reflect on the future in an accessible and engaging way.

Admission to the exhibition is €12.50. Visitors under the age of 30 receive a reduced admission rate of €7.50.

Public program SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT 

Throughout the Biennale, IABR presents an extensive public program featuring symposia, guided tours, lectures, workshops, excursions, conversations and other events. The program brings together designers, researchers, policymakers and local communities to explore today’s most pressing societal challenges.

Some events require advance registration. Capacity is limited and varies by activity. Please check the program for the latest information on venues, availability, participation requirements and any applicable fees.

The public program is being announced in phases. New events will be added to the program in the coming period.

Roadmap Rotterdam-Zuid

Rotterdam-Zuid is shaped by systems that support everyday life. From water, energy and infrastructure to places for meeting, sport, culture and entrepreneurship. This route takes you into the neighbourhood, past local initiatives and places that contribute to the resilience of Rotterdam-Zuid. It also includes several iconic buildings that tell the story of the area’s history and development. Discover SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT beyond the walls of the biennale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which guidelines apply for visitors?

A number of house rules apply during your visit. You can find the guidelines for the exhibition here. The regular guidelines you will find here.

How do I get to the Piekfabriek at the Hunter Douglas site?

The Biennale takes place at the Piekfabriek, located on the former Hunter Douglas site (Piekstraat 2, 3071 EL Rotterdam). The venue is situated on Rotterdam South and is easily accessible by bicycle, public transport and car.

By bicycle

The Piekfabriek is easily reached via the cycling routes along the River Maas and from Rotterdam city centre. From Rotterdam Centraal Station, the journey takes approximately 20 minutes by bike. Bicycle parking is available on site.

By public transport

From Rotterdam Centraal Station, take metro line D or E towards Slinge or De Akkers and get off at Wilhelminaplein or Rijnhaven. From there, it is a 15–20 minute walk to the Piekfabriek.

You can also take a bus to a stop on Rotterdam South, depending on your point of departure. Plan your journey using 9292 or the NS planner.

By car

The Piekfabriek is located just a few minutes from the A16 and A15 motorways, making it easy to reach by car.

Piekstraat 2, 3071 EL Rotterdam 

A limited number of paid parking spaces are available in the square in front of the Piekfabriek. If these are full, you can use one of the parking garages at Kop van Zuid or near Rijnhaven. Please note that paid parking applies.

Is the venue accessible?

IABR is committed to making the Biennale accessible to as many people as possible. The exhibition has been designed to accommodate visitors with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users. We also aim to provide clear wayfinding and accessible facilities throughout the venue. The building also has an elevator and a wheelchair-accessible toilet.

Do I need to purchase a ticket in advance?

Buying a ticket online via Stager is the fastest option. You can also buy one at the door; in that case, you scan a QR code and pay online.

Is food and drink available?

The IABR is not just about visiting, it is also about meeting people and engaging in conversation. That is why we have created a space within the exhibition area where you can take a break and discuss what you have seen. Here, you can grab a drink or enjoy a delicious plant-based savory or sweet snack.

Really hungry?
You can also order a pizza and a drink at Skateland (Piekstraat 45). Show your IABR ticket to get a 10% discount!

I would like to visit with a group. Is that possible?

Absolutely. We are delighted to welcome groups to the biennale. Please send an email to tickets@iabr.nl for the possibilities.

Where can journalists go for press information and interview requests?

Journalists can contact Elisabeth Kuijt for interview requests, press information, images and accreditation. Further information about press activities surrounding IABR 2026 will be published on this website.