Ronald McDonald Sophia House

Ronald McDonald House Sophia Rotterdam is located right next to the Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital. Parents can stay here just minutes away from their seriously ill child’s hospital bed. The sturdy building reflects a maritime character both inside and out – a tribute to Rotterdam, the world-class harbour city.

A home away from home

At Ronald McDonald House Sophia Rotterdam, families of children admitted to the Erasmus MC Sophia Children’s Hospital find a home away from home. Parents stay – in the nautical setting of a cruise ship – within walking distance of their seriously ill child. Care, love, and family presence have been shown to have a positive effect on the wellbeing of a sick child. Parents also find rest in the House, which helps them sustain the care for their child. At the Ronald McDonald House, parents can sleep, cook, and eat – just as they would at home. Brothers and sisters are welcome too, allowing family life to continue as normally as possible and keeping families together.

A colossal brick ship’s bow

The plot on which Ronald McDonald House stands is triangular and relatively small, measuring about 400 m². This triangular shape has been translated architecturally into a colossal brick ship’s bow with curved windows and railings. A cut-out section of the triangle reveals the guest rooms located within the ‘ship.’ The result is a bold, truly Rotterdam-style building anchored in the city, with nine storeys offering stunning views of this global metropolis.

Relaxing on the spacious rooftop terrace

The ‘ship’ features 28 guest rooms with en-suite bathrooms, several living rooms, a central kitchen and dining area, multiple playrooms, and the Ronald McDonald Play Deck. This Play Deck offers free childcare for brothers and sisters of sick children. While the children play, parents can spend quality time with their ill child or consult with doctors in peace. On the spacious rooftop terrace, families can find a pleasant and tranquil outdoor area where, high above the city, they can momentarily escape the stress of hospital life. 

Fitting maritime interior design

The nautical style is also reflected in the interior, designed by VFD Architects – interior designers for cruise ships of the renowned Holland America Line.

^{Photography: EGM architects | Rob van Esch}