Talk of the Town Exhibition: A physically accessible city
28.11.25
—03.05.26
In a Talk of the Town exhibition, we highlight a building, decision, or event in Amsterdam that is shaping the conversation of the day.
A Physically Accessible City
Amsterdam must densify, (re)build, and green its spaces in an accessible way. This combination is complex and requires a new way of thinking from architects, urban planners, housing corporations, civil servants, and citizens alike. As the city grows and changes, it must remain accessible to everyone. What does this look like in practice?
Amsterdam is building smaller homes, renewing bridges and quays, and creating more green spaces in streets and neighborhoods. At the same time, the city’s population is aging, increasing the demand for life-cycle-proof housing.
The municipality has been working for years to improve accessibility. Playgrounds are being adapted. Buildings receive support to become more accessible. The public transport network is becoming more inclusive. But how can all these ambitions truly come together?
In 2026, Talk of the Town focuses on the physical accessibility of the city. We showcase inspiring examples from the Netherlands and abroad. We demonstrate how design and policy can reinforce each other and explore how Amsterdam can grow while remaining accessible to all.
The tactile model of the Arcam building completes this Talk of the Town exhibition.
Tactile Model
The tactile and audio model allows you to experience our pavilion using senses beyond just sight. An environmental model of the Marineterrein and Oosterdok has been added to the model, full of interesting information about locations such as the National Maritime Museum, Marineterrein, Mediamatic, and NEMO Science Museum. This way, you can explore the area in a new, interactive way.
Visitor Information
Location: Arcam, Prins Hendrikkade 600
Dates: permanently on display
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 1:00–5:00 PM
Admission to Arcam (all exhibitions included):
Adults: €5.00
Students: €2.50
City Pass holders – Green dot: free
Children 0–18: free
Accompanying person for visitors with disabilities: free
With I Amsterdam City Card: free
Accessibility
Arcam is wheelchair accessible and offers a wheelchair for loan. An accessible toilet is located on the ground floor.
Arcam is easily reached by public transport. From Amsterdam Central Station, it is about a 25-minute walk or accessible via bus 22 or bus 48 (stop: Kadijksplein).
The immediate surroundings of Arcam can be busy and sometimes difficult to navigate. If you are visiting independently and need assistance, we are happy to explore the possibility of providing a guided walk from the (bus) station.
For questions or further information regarding accessibility at Arcam, email sjaan@arcam.nl or call +31 20 261 6666.